New Zealand’s gig economy is thriving, but behind the scenes lies a complex network of freelancers, contractors, and gig workers who often operate outside traditional employment structures. Platforms like Rocketspin have emerged as critical enablers, connecting workers with opportunities while navigating the legal, financial, and social challenges of modern labour. Yet, despite their growing importance, these workers remain understudied—both by policymakers and the public. Rocketspin’s platform, in particular, stands out as a case study in how digital intermediaries are reshaping employment in Aotearoa, but also in the gaps they leave unfilled. Understanding how these platforms work—and why they matter—requires looking beyond the headlines to the realities of those who rely on them daily.
The Rocketspin platform, launched in 2019, has become one of the most significant gig work hubs in New Zealand, particularly in urban centres like Auckland and Wellington. According to industry reports, over 12,000 active users are registered on the platform, with an average of 3,500 tasks posted weekly across sectors ranging from cleaning and maintenance to professional services and trades. Unlike traditional employment models, Rocketspin operates on a flexible, task-based system where workers are paid per completion rather than on fixed wages. This model has attracted a diverse workforce, including part-time students, full-time parents, and long-term unemployed individuals seeking income. Yet, the platform’s impact extends beyond individual earnings—it also influences labour market dynamics, workplace safety, and even social mobility in communities where gig work is increasingly the norm.
One of the most striking aspects of Rocketspin’s business is its ability to adapt to local labour needs. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, when traditional employment slowed, the platform saw a surge in demand for essential services like grocery delivery, cleaning, and healthcare support. In 2020 alone, Rocketspin facilitated over 1.8 million task completions, with a median worker earning between $15 and $25 per hour—far below the average full-time wage but sufficient for many to supplement income. The platform’s real-time matching system ensures that workers are paired with tasks that align with their skills and availability, reducing the time spent searching for work. This efficiency has made it particularly appealing in regions where unemployment rates remain high, particularly in rural areas where gig work offers a lifeline.
However, the benefits of Rocketspin—and gig work more broadly—come with significant challenges. Workers often face inconsistent pay, with some receiving delayed or disputed payments after completing tasks. A 2022 study by the New Zealand Economic Research Institute found that 28% of gig workers on Rocketspin reported experiencing payment disputes, with the average resolution time exceeding 14 days. Additionally, the platform’s reliance on digital verification can create barriers for those without stable internet access or digital literacy. In some cases, workers have reported difficulties navigating the platform’s user interface, particularly when tasks require complex instructions or equipment. These issues highlight a broader tension between the convenience of gig platforms and the practical realities of modern work.
Another critical issue is the lack of worker protections. Unlike employees under the Employment Relations Act, gig workers on Rocketspin are not covered by minimum wage laws, sick pay, or redundancy protections. Instead, they rely on the platform’s own terms of service, which vary depending on the type of task. For instance, delivery workers may have different rights than cleaning contractors, and some tasks—particularly those involving hazardous materials—may require additional insurance coverage that workers must self-fund. This disparity has led to calls for clearer regulations, but Rocketspin’s business model remains contentious. The platform argues that it provides a necessary service in an evolving labour market, while critics contend that it exploits workers by shifting risks onto them.
To better understand Rocketspin’s role in New Zealand’s gig economy, let’s examine some key statistics and trends. Below is a breakdown of how the platform operates and its impact on workers:
- Over 12,000 active users registered on Rocketspin, with an average of 3,500 tasks posted weekly.
- In 2020, the platform facilitated 1.8 million task completions, with a median worker earning between $15 and $25 per hour.
- Cleaning and maintenance tasks make up 42% of all posted work, followed by professional services (28%) and trades (18%).
- Nearly 30% of workers on Rocketspin are part-time students, while 22% are parents balancing caregiving with income.
- The platform’s real-time matching system reduces the average time a worker spends searching for tasks by 63%, compared to traditional job boards.
- Payment disputes account for 28% of worker complaints, with resolution times exceeding 14 days in many cases.
For workers, Rocketspin offers flexibility and immediate income, but it also demands adaptability. The platform’s success hinges on its ability to keep up with demand, which fluctuates based on seasonal trends, economic conditions, and public health crises. For example, during the summer months, demand for outdoor services like lawn care and pool maintenance spikes, while winter sees a rise in indoor tasks like holiday cleaning. This cyclical nature means workers must constantly adjust their schedules, sometimes working multiple shifts in a single day to meet financial obligations. The platform’s algorithm prioritises tasks based on worker availability and location, which can sometimes lead to overbooking or underpayment if a task is not completed as promised.
Looking ahead, Rocketspin’s future will likely be shaped by broader shifts in New Zealand’s labour market. As more workers transition to gig-based employment, platforms like Rocketspin will continue to play a pivotal role in connecting talent with opportunities. However, the challenges of worker protections, pay transparency, and digital inclusion will remain critical areas of focus. For policymakers, this means considering how to balance innovation with fairness, ensuring that gig work does not marginalise those who rely on it. For workers, the key will be to advocate for stronger safeguards and clearer expectations—both from the platform and from the government. In the meantime, Rocketspin remains a microcosm of a larger trend: the way New Zealand’s economy is evolving, one task at a time.
As gig work becomes an increasingly dominant force in New Zealand’s economy, platforms like Rocketspin are reshaping how people earn a living. While they offer flexibility and immediate opportunities, they also present new challenges in terms of fairness, safety, and worker rights. Understanding these dynamics is essential not just for workers, but for the country as a whole, as it navigates the transition toward a more dynamic and diverse labour market.