THE COST OF LIVING IN NEW ZEALAND

When applying for a student visa, you will have to prove that you can cover your living expenses during your stay in New Zealand. Your evidence may be that you have been offered a scholarship, or a sponsor or family member has agreed to sponsor your studies and/or living costs. Alternatively, you will be required to show proof of funds.

These funds must amount to at least $15,000 for the first year if you are studying for more than a year. If you are staying in New Zealand for less than 12 months, you will be required to show that you have at least $1,250 for each month of study.

New Zealand universities recommend to budget for around $18,000-$25,000 for each year of study, keeping in mind that the costs would be affected by your lifestyle and location.

This is on top of your tuition fees, which will vary from $10,000 to over $30,000 depending on your course and level of study.

You may be eligible to work during your study in New Zealand, and therefore offset some of your living costs. Most student visas allow you to work for up to 20 hours per week, and full-time in the holidays. Find out more about your work rights here.

Average living costs in New Zealand

Accommodation

As a student you may be offered accommodation for a few in halls of residence. Alternatives include, home stays or shared flats. Accommodation costs vary widely by region and you may end up paying form $150 to $500+ per week, from a room in a shared flat to a rental house.

Food

Prices vary greatly depending on your diet and where you shop. However, an average weekly budget for a healthy diet is around $65.

Utilities

Consumer Powerswitch and Glimp let you compare gas and electricity options. Many places rely on bottled LPG rather than natural gas. Water is sometimes available for free or for a small fee included in your rent.

Communication

Outside of your campus, free Wi-fi is widely available in cafes and shopping malls. Your hall stay may charge you a monthly fee for broadband. Mobile phones and plans are available from half a dozen different providers such as Spark, Vodafone, 2Degrees, or Skinny Mobile.

Transport

Public transport is usually well organised and reliable in larger cities and there may be student discounts. There are also intercity bus lines but New Zealand still largely relies on personal cars.

Entertainment

New Zealanders like music and just gathering with friends and many museums, festivals or outdoor activities are free or discounted for students. But the N.1 activity for the vast majority of Kiwis is to explore the country’s wonderful beaches, forests, mountains and lakes for free.

Cost of living