How Much Should I Charge for Catering?
Pricing catering services correctly is essential for building a profitable business while remaining competitive in the New Zealand market. Strategic pricing helps you attract the right clients, cover all costs including labour and ingredients, and position your brand appropriately within your local market segment.
Last updated: 9 January 2026
Average Catering Pricing in 2026
Min
$24
Max
$240
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What Affects Catering Pricing?
- 1Guest count and portion sizes required
- 2Menu complexity and ingredient quality
- 3Service style (buffet, plated, family-style)
- 4Event duration and staffing requirements
- 5Location accessibility and setup complexity
What's Typically Included in a Catering Quote?
Example Catering Cost Breakdown
Catering
Hourly vs Project-Based Catering Pricing
How far in advance should I book catering services?
Most caterers recommend booking 2-4 weeks in advance for small events and 6-8 weeks for larger gatherings or during peak seasons like holidays and wedding season.
What's typically included in catering service fees?
Basic catering usually includes food preparation, delivery, and basic serving equipment. Additional services like staff, linens, tables, and cleanup may cost extra depending on your package.
How do I estimate the right amount of food for my event?
Professional caterers typically plan for 1-1.5 pounds of food per person for a full meal, but this varies based on event timing, guest demographics, and whether alcohol is served.
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