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Student Accommodation in New Zealand

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  • By:CANAM Group
  • Updated On:Sep 06,2024 05:01 PM IST

  • There are various student housing options in New Zealand for international students.
  • International students in New Zealand can choose from various housing options, such as on-campus dorms, shared apartments, homestays, and private rentals.
  • International students applying for a student visa in New Zealand must have a minimum of NZ$20,000 to cover their yearly cost of living in NZ.

Student Accommodation in New Zealand.webp


Are you thinking of studying in New Zealand? The country is perfect for your study abroad journey as it is known for its top-notch universities, beautiful scenery, and welcoming community for international students. When finding accommodation for international students in New Zealand, different housing options are available, such as university-managed housing, private rentals, and homestays that meet the diverse needs of students worldwide as per their tastes and financial capabilities.

This blog has everything you need to find the perfect student accommodation in New Zealand. Prospective students can learn about housing options, the cost of living in NZ, and how to find accommodation in New Zealand. 

Accommodation for International Students in New Zealand

One of the main concerns that international students studying in New Zealand have is choosing the right accommodation. In New Zealand, students have the option of on-campus and off-campus housing. Check out the types of accommodation for international students in New Zealand.

On-CampusOff-campus
It includes dorms, modern apartments, and private suites catering to students' diverse needs.It includes furnished rooms, shared kitchen facilities, and additional amenities such as laundry services. 
The cost of living on average is NZ$100 to NZ$700 per week.The cost of living on average is NZ$150 to NZ$400 per week. 
On-campus amenities like furnished rooms, communal lounges, and laundry services enhance student life.Students can select off-campus housing as per their preferences and proximity to the university.

International student accommodation in New zealand.webp

Types of Student Accommodation in New Zealand 

There are various accommodation options for international students, each with advantages and concerns. The country is committed to providing students with a comfortable environment that meets their diverse needs and preferences.  Here is the list of New Zealand accommodation types:

Accommodation optionsAdvantages
University Halls of Residence (Hostels)
  • Universities in New Zealand offer on-campus accommodations called Halls of Residence or Student Hostels. 
  • Universities have a dormitory-style living arrangement with shared amenities.
Homestay
  • Homestay accommodation is staying with a local family.
  • They offer private rooms and meals.
Private Rental Apartments
  • These are off-campus Private Rental apartments.
  • Studio apartments or shared multi-bedroom units.
  • These are best if you love to stay independent.
Shared Rental Flats
  • Students can share rental accommodation with others.
  • It will reduce the cost of living and share responsibilities.

Choosing Student Accommodation in New Zealand: Key Factors

Choosing suitable student accommodation is essential as it can significantly affect your university experience. There are important things to take into account for a comfortable living environment regardless of whether you select homestays, off-campus rentals, or on-campus housing.

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When considering choosing accommodation for international students in New Zealand, there are important things to take into account:

LocationAlways consider the location of your accommodation, university campus, public transportation, shops, restaurants, and recreational facilities.
CostConsider the overall cost of living in NZ, including rent, utilities, and any extra fees.
Facilities and AmenitiesCheck for the available facilities, such as the quality of living space, kitchen, laundry, and shared common areas.
Lifestyle and CommunityEvaluate the living environment, including social interaction, support networks, and community.
Safety and SecurityEnsure the accommodation has secure entry, CCTV, and on-site management for proper security measures.
Flexibility and Lease TermsUnderstand lease terms, including duration, notice periods, and restrictions on subletting or early termination.

Pros & Cons of On-Campus Accommodation for Students in New Zealand

Are you planning to live on campus during college? Campus life offers convenience and community, but it also has some flaws. To help you decide on your housing choices, review the benefits and drawbacks of living on campus.

ProsCons
Convenient access: Students will have convenient access to university facilities. Thus, saving time and money on transportation.Lack of privacy: Limited space and lack of privacy can make it challenging for students who value personal comfort and freedom.
Security: University residential properties have security such as staff, cameras, access to control systems & locks, to ensure safety.Too many rules to follow: Campus accommodation often has rules and regulations, such as visitor policies and alcohol policies. Violations may result in penalties.
Increased access to services: Students have increased access to support services, which can be highly beneficial.Increased cost of living: The cost of living in NZ varies according to location, type, and quality.
Amenities: On-campus housing provides amenities like internet, cable TV, gym, pool, and cafeteria.Limited availability: Limited capacity for campus housing may require students to apply early.

Pros & Cons of Off-Campus Accommodation for Students in New Zealand

Your college experience may be greatly impacted by living off campus. Although it has a number of disadvantages, it also gives you greater freedom and flexibility. By analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of each option, students can select the best one.

ProsCons
Cost-Effective: Living off-campus can be affordable depending on the location and the type of housing you choose. Save money by sharing expenses with roommates, cooking at home, and finding discounts.Commute:  Depending on the location, commuting to campus may be time-consuming and expensive.
Independence and privacy: You can enjoy freedom and privacy by choosing your roommates, furniture, food, and lifestyle.Less Campus Involvement: Living off-campus may reduce involvement in campus activities, clubs, and events, making blending into the campus community more challenging.
Diversity: Living independently allows for greater exposure to diverse people, cultures, and experiences and increased accessibility to explore the city and its attractions.Responsibilities: Living off-campus requires managing everything independently, from finding a suitable place and signing a contract to handling bills, cleaning, and maintenance.

Cost of Student Accommodation in New Zealand

Even though there are many different options for housing available in New Zealand, students still worry a lot about the cost of living in NZ. It is essential to understand the costs linked with student housing. The location, kind of housing, and amenities have an impact on the cost of living for students in New Zealand. The typical monthly rent for student housing in New Zealand is as follows:

Accommodation TypeCost (per Month)
University Halls of ResidenceNZD 860 to NZD 1,800 
HomestayNZD 800 to NZD 1,500 
Private Rental ApartmentsNZD 600 to NZD 1,200
Shared Rental FlatsNZD 500 to NZD 1,000

Note
: These figures are approximate and may vary based on factors like the city, accommodation size, and included amenities.

Best Cities for Student Accommodation in New Zealand

New Zealand has vibrant cities offering a diverse lifestyle. To help prospective students study at the top cities in New Zealand, let's explore these cities' unique characteristics and accommodation options. New Zealand's cities provide students with a fulfilling academic and living experience.

New Zealand's major cities offer a diverse range of student accommodation options. Some of the NZ's most popular cities for students, along with their weekly average cost, include:

CityAverage Cost (Weekly)
AucklandNZD 200 - NZD 500
ChristchurchNZD 160 - NZD 400
DunedinNZD 150 - NZD 350
HamiltonNZD 140 - NZD 340
TaurangaNZD 130 - NZD 330
WellingtonNZD 180 - NZD 450

How to Find Student Accommodation in New Zealand?

Finding suitable student accommodation in New Zealand is crucial for a smooth transition into academic life. To help you navigate the student accommodation landscape in New Zealand, here are some valuable tips:

Start your search earlyBegin your accommodation search early, as the best options are in high demand, especially during peak times.
Use university housing servicesMany NZ universities offer housing services to help you find suitable on or off-campus accommodation.
Check out online platformsWebsites like Trademe, Flatmates.com, and university housing portals are great for finding private rental options.
Consider short-term optionsIf you need more clarification about your long-term plans, consider short-term accommodation options like student hostels or temporary rentals for flexibility.
Prioritize your needsTo simplify your search and find the perfect match, create a checklist of your critical needs, such as location, budget, and amenities.
Visit the accommodationVisit the accommodation in person to assess its suitability and understand the living environment.
Read Reviews & FeedbackGet tenant reviews and feedback to learn about the quality and management of the accommodation.

Websites for Searching Student Accommodation in New Zealand

Finding student accommodation in New Zealand can be overwhelming, but helpful websites and resources simplify the search process. These websites provide a range of options, such as private rentals and housing maintained by the institution, to help you make decisions and improve your overall experience. 

To assist you in your search for the perfect student accommodation in New Zealand, here are some valuable websites and resources:

  • University Housing Portals
  • Flatmates.com
  • Trademe
  • StudyLink
  • StudentAccommodation.co.nz

Conclusion


It can be difficult for international students to find suitable student accommodation in New Zealand. But, with the right knowledge and direction, students may make an informed choice and have a pleasant living environment. Identify the perfect spot for you as a student in New Zealand by taking into account various possibilities, important factors, and available resources.

Connect with study abroad Consultants at Canam to find the perfect student accommodation in New Zealand. They will assist you in exploring housing options and securing your ideal living space for a rewarding student experience. 

FAQ

Hamilton, Whangarei, Rotorua, and New Plymouth are among the most affordable cities in New Zealand.
Yes, living in New Zealand is very affordable for students. The monthly cost of living could range from NZD 2500 to NZD 3000.
In New Zealand, international students have various accommodation options, such as university halls, private halls, homestays, shared apartments/flats, and private rentals. Each option offers different features and atmospheres to suit various preferences and budgets.
The annual cost of living for an international student studying in New Zealand is from $20,000 to $25,000.
Students can search for independent rental options, such as apartments and shared houses, on real estate websites, local ads, or university notice boards.
Students have the option to select their accommodation based on various factors, including but not limited to the location, reviews, amenities, price, and more.
Prices vary based on location and accommodation type, ranging from NZ$110 to NZ$700 per week.

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