global reach consultancy

Living cost and expenses in New Zealand

Living in New Zealand benefits international students because they can study at the best institutions and earn the best degrees and work to earn their living costs in New Zealand for up to twenty hours per semester. The minimum wage rate is NZD 14/hour, and working for some hours in weeks will be able to cover the living cost in New Zealand. By far, New Zealand has the lowest cost with the highest quality of living. An excellent chance to learn and experience more is studying abroad. Although the trip is not entirely stress-free, it is completely worthwhile. 

An overview of the living cost in New Zealand for international students is provided here to help you prepare more effectively if you're considering studying there. 

Living costs in New Zealand 

In addition to tuition and insurance costs, students may need between $15,000 and $18,000 per year for housing/rent, food, transportation, phone bills, internet use, and entertainment. The monthly living cost in New Zealand for students following a short course is $1250, covering all of their living expenditures. The living cost in New Zealand varies according to lifestyle and location of residence for students. Prices for some items vary based on their location.  

When making a budget, keep in mind to account for essential expenses like housing, local transportation, food, phone, and utility bills (though the cost of living typically covers the last three if a student chooses to live in a hall of residence that provides meals), as well as money for entertainment. 

Living cost in New Zealand for Food and Beverages 

With a comparatively lower cost of living in New Zealand, food goods in Tier-1 cities are more expensive than in other cities. Food goods aren't expensive, though; if you're willing to prepare meals at home, you can save a ton of cash. Food prices are well within an acceptable range in practically all areas of the country, so there is no need to be concerned. However, your typical monthly costs in New Zealand will harm your finances if you frequently dine out. According to the government, the typical weekly food budget in New Zealand is estimated to be between 100 and 150 NZD. 

Types of Living Costs in New Zealand 

Types of living costs in New Zealand every month: 

  • Accommodation NZD 820-1400 
  • Food NZD 230 
  • Daily essentials NZD 56 
  • Transport (Public) NZD 130 
  • Phone & Internet NZD 55 
  • Entertainment NZD 55-105 
  • Medical Expenses NZD 45-110 
  • Outside Eating NZD 120-160 
  • Clothing NZD 215-310 
  • Miscellaneous Expenses NZD 110 

Living costs in a different city 

The most expensive cities for international students living in New Zealand are Auckland 1400-2000 NZD per month, Wellington 1400-2000 NZD per month, Christchurch 1000-1400 NZD, and Whangarei 1050-2000 NZD per month. The cheapest cities for living in New Zealand are Hamilton, 700-900 NZD per month, Rotorua 650-850 NZD per month; Invercargill, 650-750 NZD; and New Plymouth, 800-900 NZD per month. 

Transportation cost  

Students studying in a city will have access to buses and trains from early morning until late at night. Ferry service is available in several areas of Wellington and Auckland. Students may be eligible for discounts on public transportation in some areas. Students who use an electronic travel card rather than a paper ticket might receive reduced public transportation prices if they live in a larger city. Some cheap means of transportation in New Zealand are: 

  • Buses: Buses are the most affordable and popular mode of public transportation for getting between towns and cities, with costs starting at about $10 NZ. 
  • Train: Although not frequently used in New Zealand, trains are one of the most beautiful ways to travel by rail. Train travel begins at about NZ$49 per person.  
  • Boats & Ferries: Between the North and South Islands, ferries are a standard mode of transportation. Passenger prices start at $55 NZ. 

Getting around is easy because most incredible tiny towns are in New Zealand. In the city, people commute by bus, bicycle, or foot. New Zealand's most significant cities provide excellent housing options and efficient transportation systems. In addition to having commuter trains and ferries, Auckland and Wellington are among the safest cities in New Zealand. 

Tips for surviving in New Zealand on a low budget: 

Some tips for maintaining your living cost in New Zealand are listed below: 

  • Use your student identification card to get discounts on the uni student budget. 
  • Choose a cheap Wi-Fi. 
  • Go shopping at op-shops. 
  • Make a budget plan. 
  • Learn to cook a meal. 
  • Use intercity for bus transportation. 
  • Take BYOW restaurants to wine and dine. 
  • Get a city pass. 
  • Go for groceries shopping at Park and save. 
People Also See