Student Accommodation in New Zealand
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This guide presents ifferent types of accommodation in New Zealand for Indian students. 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.
Finding suitable accommodation in New Zealand is an important step in your study abroad journey. New Zealand offers different housing options for Indian students including hostels, shared apartments and homestays. This article give details on student accommodations in NZ.
Type of Accommodation in New Zealand
On-Campus Accommodation
As many as 8 universities in New Zealand offer accommodations to students. Living on campus offers convenience and a strong community support.
- 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 lecture halls and campus facilities
- Cons: Can be more expensive, high demand - always full
- Examples: Waiparuru Hall, Weir House, University Hall
Off-Campus Rentals and Shared Flats
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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
Third accommodation option in NZ is a Homestay. Homestays are suitable for students who seek cultural immersion and family like environment. Homestays provide a welcoming environment and nutritious home-cooked meals. Note that you must explore such an option as soon as possible if you need one.
- Rent- INR 9,000 to 15,500 per week
- Pros- Meals included, culturally rich experience and helps to adapt to local life
- Cons- Less privacy and independence
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 |
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Cost of Living in New Zealand
Average monthly living cost in New Zealand for Indian students excluding rent is around INR 87,000. Accommodation cost on the other hand ranges from NZD 430 to 490 per month.
| 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 in New Zealand?
- 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.
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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.
No, not every programme is offered in July. Core degrees in Business and Engineering are widely available. Some specialised health or research courses may only have a February start. You must check the specific course availability on the university website before applying.
It depends entirely on your academic schedule. February is the primary intake with the most course options, but the July intake in New Zealand is perfect for Indian students finishing exams in May who wish to avoid a gap year. Both intakes offer the same quality of education.
Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae
You should apply immediately after accepting your offer. Ideally by May. Student visa processing can take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks, and waiting until June is risky. Applying early ensures you have your visa in hand. Well before your flight.