Student Accommodation in New Zealand
Talk to Expert
This guide breaks down the different types of accommodation options for Indian students in New Zealand. This covers information about on-campus residences, shared flats, and homestays. Also, we have covered practical tips for Indians and cost insights to help you find a safe, and comfortable place to live while studying abroad.
New Zealand is one of the most preferred study destinations for Indian students. The reputed universities and a safe environment make it an ideal choice for higher studies. Beyond choosing a university, one of the biggest questions is where to live. However, finding suitable accommodation in New Zealand is a critical step in your study abroad journey.
New Zealand offers different housing options for Indian students. Hostels, shared apartments, and homestays available in New Zealand cater to the different needs of Indian students. In this article, we are going to break down the student accommodation in NZ, giving Indian students everything they need to make confident housing choices.
Type of Accommodation in New Zealand
Students in New Zealand can choose from different types of accommodation available. Some students prefer the comfort and support of on-campus housing. On the other hand, a few students enjoy the freedom of shared flats or homestays with a host family during their studies in New Zealand. Each option has its own benefits and things to consider.
On-Campus Accommodation
There are 8 universities in New Zealand, and almost all of them offer student accommodation to their students. Living on campus offers convenience and a strong community feeling, which is perfect for new international students acclimating to a new country.
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
- Rent: INR 11,000 to 21,000 per week (NZD 225 to 430)
- Pros: Fully furnished rooms, utilities included, opportunity to meet other students, close to lectures and campus facilities
- Cons: Can be more expensive; high demand means spots fill quickly
- Examples: Waiparuru Hall, Weir House, University Hall
Off-Campus Rentals and Shared Flats
Shared flats and private apartments give students more independence. Also, it typically comes with lower costs compared to on-campus halls. This is true but you need to manage all the things, such as cooking, cleaning and utilities. Here are breakdown, which you need to consider: .
- Rent: INR 5,500 to 14,000 per week (NZD 110 to 285)
- Pros: More privacy and control; can choose flatmates; greater flexibility in lifestyle
- Cons: You'll be responsible for bills and maintenance; lease terms may restrict short stays
- Popular Websites: TradeMe.co.nz, and Flatmates.co.nz
Homestays
The third accommodation option in NZ is for those students who are seeking cultural immersion and family support. Homestays provide a welcoming environment and nutritious home cooked meals. You can get a veg meal if you request one. Note that you need to explore such an option as soon as possible.
- Rent: INR 9,000 to 15,500 per week (NZD 185 to 320)
- Pros: Meals included; culturally rich experience; help adapting to local life
- Cons: Less privacy and independence; availability can be limited
City-Wise Comparison of Accommodation in NZ
Here, we have mentioned city-wise comparison of on-campus and off-campus housing in New Zealand. This table will help Indian students to do a quick comparison and select which suits them most:
| City | On-Campus Rent (INR/week) | Off-Campus Rent (INR/week) | Indian Community | Food & Culture |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auckland | 12,300 to 20,500 | 6,000 to 13,000 | Large and vibrant | Very diverse, many Indian restaurants and stores |
| Wellington | 11,000 to 18,000 | 6,000 to 11,700 | Moderate | Growing Indian community and cultural events |
| Christchurch | 11,000 to 17,600 | 5,500 to 11,000 | Small but growing | Few Indian shops but warm community |
| Queenstown | 9,000 to 15,000 | 7,000 to 12,000 | Smaller group | Limited but improving Indian amenities |
Related Reads:
Cost of Living in New Zealand
For Indian students planning to study in New Zealand, the average monthly living cost (excluding rent) is around INR 87,000 (NZD 1,690). Rent typically ranges from NZD 430 to 490 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Budget wisely for food, transport, utilities, and other essentials to maintain a comfortable lifestyle while studying abroad. Here, we have mentioned a detailed table of cost of living in New Zealand for one person:
| Category |
Average Monthly Cost (in NZD) |
Approximate Monthly Cost in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Rent for 1 Bedroom Apartment |
430 to 490 |
22,000 to 26,000 |
| Groceries / Food |
200 to 250 |
10,000 to 13,000 |
| Transport (Bus/Metro Pass) |
170 to 200 |
8,800 to 10,300 |
| Mobile & Internet |
100 |
5,200 |
| Clothes |
200 to 300 |
10,300 to 15,500 |
| Healthcare |
50 to 100 |
2,600 to 5,200 |
| Everyday Essentials |
50 |
2,600 |
| Other / Miscellaneous |
100 to 200 |
5,200 to 10,000 |
Also Read:
How to Find Accommodation: Tips for Indian Students
Here are some tips to find student accommodation in New Zealand especially for Indian students. These tips will help you to avoid scams and get a secure place to live till you complete your higher studies.
- Start Early: Start looking for accommodation at least 3 to 4 months before your course begins, especially for on-campus housing or popular areas. Goal is to secure an ideal place to live.
- Take University Help: Use university website and the student support team to get information about trusted rental platforms to avoid scams.
- Do Not Pay Money Before Tour: Always take a virtual or in-person tour before paying any money.
- Check Agreement Points Before Making Payment: Read the rental agreement carefully and ask questions if something is unclear.
- Connect With Other Students Living in NZ: Join Indian student groups for reliable referrals and extra support.
- Check Agreement Rules: Check the lease length and rules about ending the contract early.
Related Reads:
Choosing the right accommodation in New Zealand needs a lot of research. It is important that you select the house which fits in your needs. This will make your study abroad journey smooth and rewarding. Indian students should consider costs, independence, and cultural comfort to pick the best housing options.
For help with university applications, students seeking to study abroad can contact our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors. The comments section below allows candidates to contact us as well.
International students need to show sufficient funds for getting a New Zealand student visa. Students need to show NZ$ 20,000 for a full year of study or NZ$ 1,250 per month for getting a New Zealand study visa.
Cost of New Zealand Student Visa Application
- New Zealand Visa Cost: Students who are submitting their Student Visa Application online are required to pay a base Visa fee of NZD 375 which is INR 19,200 (approximately).
- Candidates who are applying for their Student Visa online from New Delhi are required to pay NZD 430 which is INR 22,000 (approximately) as the receiving centre fees.
- Those applying for a student visa in New Zealand on paper (offline mode) should note that the immigration costs would be INR 22,600, in addition to this students are required to pay a receiving Centre fee of INR 1,520.
To apply for a New Zealand visa:
Applicants should be aware that applying online is the recommended way to submit their New Zealand visa application.
Gather your documentation, scan it, and prepare all of your primary and supporting papers in PDF format. Ensure you have scanned and attached a photo of yourself. Applicants are advised to check the official website for the embassy's needed picture criteria.
Depending on the applicant's history, the New Zealand High Commission typically requires 63 calendar days to process a visa. Thus, in order to start their courses, students must apply for their visas at least three months in advance. Finish your online application – You must first register online and complete the form.
Pick your stage and get free guidance from counsellors who've helped thousands get into top universities.
Starting research
Shortlisting colleges
Exam preparation
SOP/LOR writing
Scholarship & finance
Visa application
Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae
With a good educational system, excellent quality of life, and a number of research opportunities, New Zealand offers a lot to international students. Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand has a 39 percent population of overseas citizens, making it a culturally diverse city. Moreover, the post-study work visa in New Zealand can offer up to three years of stay back. As per Stats New Zealand, its unemployment rate is 3.4 percent. Students enrolled in a course of 12 months or more can also work part-time in New Zealand for up to 20 hours a week during the semester and holidays.