Choosing the right web development partner in NZ is less about flashy design and more about clarity, process, performance, and ownership. This checklist is written for NZ small businesses who want a site that loads fast, ranks well, and is easy to maintain.
Key takeaways
- A good developer asks the right questions before quoting.
- Portfolio screenshots are not enough - check speed and mobile UX.
- Make sure you own your domain, content, and hosting access.
- Support matters: understand turnaround and backups.
Quick 5-step checklist
- Clarify your goals, pages, and must-haves.
- Validate real portfolio quality (speed, mobile, accessibility).
- Confirm the delivery process (timeline, feedback loops, revisions).
- Check SEO and analytics basics are included.
- Lock in ownership and support.
| What matters | Good sign | Risk sign |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Written deliverables and exclusions | "We will figure it out" |
| Portfolio | Fast, mobile friendly, clear CTA | Pretty screenshots only |
| Timeline | Clear milestones and feedback window | No dates, no plan |
| Ownership | You control domain and access | Vendor lock-in |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a developer is "good"?
They ask smart discovery questions, show real examples, explain trade-offs clearly, and put scope/support in writing.
Should I choose a freelancer or an agency in NZ?
Choose based on process and accountability, not labels. Freelancers are great for speed; agencies for multi-skill delivery.
Do I need a CMS?
If you want to update pages yourself, yes. We specialize in Headless CMS solutions for maximum flexibility.