Google Ads vs. Facebook Ads: What’s Best for Business

For many startups and mid-size businesses in New Zealand, growth begins with word of mouth and organic sales. But once momentum builds, the next logical step is paid advertising. The question then becomes: should you invest in Google Ads or Facebook Ads for your NZ Business?

Both platforms are powerful, but they serve very different purposes. Choosing the right one depends on your goals, your audience, and how quickly you need results.

Which Works Best for My Ad Campaign?

The short answer: it depends on where your customers are in their buying journey.
If you sell services people need urgently—like home repairs, health, or professional advice—Google Ads tends to perform best. If your products rely on inspiration, identity, or community—like fashion, beauty, or fitness—Facebook Ads may be a stronger driver of discovery.

For startups, focusing first on Google Ads often makes sense, because the leads are more immediate. Mid-size businesses, once established, usually benefit from layering Facebook Ads on top to scale brand awareness and customer retention.

Google Ads: Capturing Intent

Google Ads is designed for moments of action. When a customer types “plumber in Auckland” or “best accounting software NZ,” they already know what they want. Showing up at that exact moment puts your business in front of people who are ready to make a decision.
For startups, this can be a game changer. You don’t need to convince someone they need your product—you simply need to show up when they’re searching. That’s why many smaller businesses see Google Ads as the fastest route to measurable ROI.

Facebook Ads: Creating Demand

Facebook and Instagram play a different role. Instead of waiting for people to search, these platforms help you spark interest when your audience is browsing, scrolling, or relaxing. Ads here need to grab attention visually, tell a story, and inspire curiosity.
This makes Facebook Ads particularly powerful for lifestyle brands, eCommerce businesses, or mid-size companies looking to grow awareness. Rather than capturing existing demand, you’re creating it—building recognition and loyalty over time.

Smarter Together

The truth is, the most effective businesses in New Zealand don’t view Google Ads versus Facebook Ads as a choice—they use both strategically. A typical growth path looks like this:

Startups often launch with Google Ads to generate early leads and validate their product or service.
Scaling businesses introduce Facebook Ads to build community, retarget past visitors, and strengthen brand loyalty.

When combined, the two platforms create a full customer journey: Facebook introduces your brand, and Google helps close the deal.
You can also amplify your reach by using other formats like Google Shopping campaigns or YouTube ads. For example, check out our insights on Using Google Shopping and Paid Search for Your Online Business or Reasons to Promote YouTube Videos Using Google Ads.

FAQs: Google Ads vs. Facebook Ads in 2025

Are Facebook Ads worth it in 2025?

Yes—if your goal is to build brand awareness, nurture new audiences, and retarget website visitors. Facebook Ads are especially effective for lifestyle and eCommerce brands that rely on visuals and storytelling. For service-based businesses that need fast leads, Google Ads may deliver better ROI.

Which is more profitable, Google Ads or Facebook Ads?

Profitability depends on your industry, audience, and objectives. Google Ads often deliver quicker conversions because they capture active search intent. Facebook Ads can be more cost-efficient for brand awareness and retargeting, especially when combined with Google Ads in a full-funnel strategy.

What is the new update for Google Ads 2025?

Google continues to invest in automation and AI-driven targeting, making it easier for businesses to reach the right audience at scale. Features like Performance Max campaigns and deeper integration with YouTube video ads are now standard. (👉 Read more in our blog on Google Ad Trends).

Are Facebook Ads worth it for small business?

Yes—when used strategically. Small businesses can use Facebook Ads to test messaging, build local awareness, and retarget visitors at a low cost. However, for immediate leads, starting with Google Ads often makes more sense.

Is $1000 enough for Google Ads?

$1000 can be enough for a highly targeted campaign in New Zealand, especially for startups testing a few core keywords. The key is focusing on quality traffic, not spreading spend too thin. Learn more in our guide on Using Google Shopping and Paid Search for Your Online Business.

What kind of ads are most successful on Facebook?

Ads that feel authentic and visually engaging perform best. Carousel ads showcasing multiple products, video ads that tell a story, and dynamic retargeting campaigns are especially effective. For eCommerce brands, remarketing is critical (👉 see our blog on Remarketing Your Shopify Store).

Why Work With Firefly

At Firefly, we’ve seen firsthand how powerful the right advertising mix can be. As an award-winning Google Ads agency in New Zealand, we specialise in helping startups and mid-size businesses get the most from their marketing spend. Our digital marketing team in Auckland and Christchurch delivers strategies that are cost-effective, scalable, and focused on ROI—not vanity metrics.

Learn more about Firefly Digital
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Ready to Take Flight?

Whether you’re a startup chasing your first customers or a mid-size business looking to scale, Firefly can help you find the right balance between Google Ads and Facebook Ads.
📞 Call us today on 0800 347 335 or request a free quote to see how we can grow your NZ business.