Study in New Zealand: Housing & Living Costs
The cost of living in New Zealand can vary dramatically depending on the city you're living in. Costs vary across New Zealand, but here are some general ones.
The cost of living in New Zealand can vary dramatically depending on the city you're living in. But, in general, some average costs in New Zealand are:
| Meal | NZD $20 |
| Coffee | NZD $4.76 |
| Beer | NZD $9 |
| Cinema Ticket | NZD $16 |
| Monthly Rent | NZD $1,478 |
| Monthly Transport | NZD $165 |
Most institutions will be happy to help you to find accommodation prior to your arrival. Normally, you’ll have several options on where to live:
Halls of Residence & Student Hostels
Halls of residence, also known as student hostels, are usually located on campuses or near to them. These will have you living close to classes together with lots of other students from all over the world in a very socially active setting. Rooms are single or twin, with basic furnishings, bed linen and cleaning provided. In many cases you will also be served meals in the communal dining hall. At some institutions you will have the option of living in self-catering hostels where six to eight students live together with their own rooms, but share a kitchen and living area.
Home Stay & Private Board
Home stays or private boarding normally means that you’ll get a room with a family, normally in a suburban house with gardens. Meals will be provided by the family. What you must keep in mind here is that you are living with a family, so there can be some tight rules. In return, you’ll get a family that will include you in their life and culture and help you adjust to your new life in New Zealand.
Private Renting
Private renting of a house or apartment (flat) with other students is also a common option. This is often referred to as ‘flatting’. This can be difficult to arrange when you first arrive as private lets are usually rented unfurnished with only the kitchen basics provided. Also, many choose to wait and get to know some other students with whom they can later share. It’s also worth noting that all utilities are usually extra and heating is not always provided in New Zealand.
You’ll find listings on notice boards at your school, in local newspapers and on the internet. Letting agencies may take up to a month’s rent in advance as a deposit when you move in.
Study in New Zealand
Over 30,000 international students choose New Zealand as their study abroad destination every year. Click here to learn why.
Education in New Zealand
The New Zealand education system is currently ranked as number 3 in the world. It reflects their unique and diverse society, open to different abilities, religious beliefs, ethnic groups, income levels, and ideas about teaching and learning.
Student Visas
In most cases, if you are studying for longer than three months you will need a student visa in New Zealand. Learn more about the processes and documents you may need to enter the country.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
All higher education in New Zealand requires you to pay a certain fee per year of study. Although it is a substantial amount of money, compared to fees of many other developed countries, fees are relatively low.
Language & Culture
New Zealand has three official languages. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of language, culture, cuisine, and more!
Application Process
Applications for higher education in New Zealand are made directly through the school in question. Here you'll find more information about what you need to apply to a New Zealand university.
Programs
Ready to look at programs in New Zealand? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in New Zealand.
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Author
The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.