Accommodation in New Zealand

Students can find a wide range of accommodation in New Zealand, from affordable holiday parks to luxurious alpine lodges, along with halls, shared houses and homestays. 

Here’s a quick look at the main details:

• Accommodation options: University halls, shared houses, private student accommodation, private apartments, homestays and temporary stays
• Weekly accommodation cost: Around NZD 160-700+ (approximately INR 8,900-38,900)
• More expensive cities: Auckland and Wellington
• Potentially more affordable cities: Christchurch, Hamilton and Dunedin
• Key rental cost: Rent may be separate from electricity, internet, heating and other bills
• Where to search: University accommodation services and trusted rental websites

The sections below explain the types of student accommodation in New Zealand, costs by accommodation type and city, rental agreements and bonds, the best websites to find housing, and tips for finding affordable accommodation.

Types of Student Accommodation in New Zealand

There are different types of accommodation in New Zealand for students. Some options are near universities, while others can be affordable but far away. This largely depends on your budget, privacy requirements, and commitment.

University Halls of Residence

These halls are among the most preferred halls for freshers. They are near the university and connect you with fellow students.

• Generally, you have to choose between a private room or a shared room.
• Shared bathrooms and shared kitchens can be used.
• There are some halls that offer food items and others with common kitchens.
• Internet, laundry, and common areas might be available.
• Some halls provide assistance and facilities to students.
• Applications may be subject to a limit on places, so apply early. 

For those who are looking for accommodation for international students in New Zealand, university halls can be a simple choice, especially during the first year.

Shared Houses and Apartments

House sharing is a popular accommodation option for students who plan to study in New Zealand and want to reduce their living expenses. Shared spaces usually include the kitchen, bathroom, and living areas, but there is usually a separate bedroom.

• Rent and household bills can be shared between students.
• You might have to cover the cost of electricity, internet, and other services separately.
• You may not need to pay as much for shared housing as for renting an entire apartment.
• Must obey house rules and participate in household chores.

This kind of housing is also useful for students searching for affordable accommodation in New Zealand.

Private Student Accommodation

Students who like a more private apartment can rent from that option. This option provides you with additional control over the space where you live, but it can be more expensive.

• You may get a private room or studio.
• Some rooms have private bathrooms and small kitchens.
• Internet, electricity, and other services may be included in the rent.
• Common areas, gyms, study rooms, and laundry facilities may be available.
• These places can cost more than university halls.

This can be a convenient option for accommodation for international students in New Zealand who want to live in a room.

Private Apartments

Students who want more privacy can rent a private apartment. This option gives you more control over your living space but can cost more.

• You can have your own bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen.
• Apartments may be furnished or unfurnished.
• Electricity, internet, and other bills may be separate.
• A bond or security deposit may be required.
• Check the rental agreement before signing.

Before choosing a private apartment, compare the cost of accommodation in New Zealand with halls and shared housing. A private apartment may look comfortable, but the total cost can be much higher.

Homestay Accommodation

Student homestay is a living experience with a local family. This may be suitable for a student who wishes to have a home setting.

• Generally, one student will have their own room.
• Food is provided if agreed upon.
• You can experience local life and culture.
• It can assist foreign students in practicing English.
• Before moving in, the rules of the house and meal arrangements should be discussed.

Homestays can be a useful choice for accommodation for international students in New Zealand, especially for students who are living abroad for the first time.

Temporary Accommodation

If you don't have a permanent room before you arrive in New Zealand, then temporary housing can help.

• Hostel: Helpful for a few days or weeks to look for a room.
• Short-term apartments: These are available for staying for brief periods of time and come with furniture.
• Staying at homestays: There are some families that may provide short-term accommodation.
• Shared rooms: Temporary rooms in a shared house may be available for a limited time.

Temporary accommodation provides time to view homes before a permanent home is chosen. 

Curious about budget? Check out: Cost to Study in New Zealand

Cost of Accommodation in New Zealand for Students

The cost of accommodation in New Zealand depends on the city, type of room, location, and facilities included. Students are also advised to see if the bills for electricity, Internet, heating, water, etc., are included in the rent.

The average rent per week may vary between cities. Auckland and Wellington are usually more expensive, and some smaller cities may have more affordable rents. 

Average Accommodation Cost

A simple way to understand the cost of accommodation in New Zealand is to compare different housing options.

The following table includes estimated costs for the accommodation types for students. 

Accommodation Type	Approximate Weekly Cost
University hall	NZD 250-500 (INR 13,890-27,780)
Shared house/WG	NZD 180-350 (INR 10,000-19,450)
Private student accommodation	NZD 300-600 (INR 16,670-33,340)
Homestay	NZD 250-450 (INR 13,890-25,000)
Private apartment	NZD 350-700+ (INR 19,450-38,890)

Note: These are approximate figures. Prices may vary depending on the city, room size, location, and facilities.

Students should consider the weekly price of accommodation, rather than the rent, when they are thinking about the cost of accommodation in New Zealand.

Additional Expenses Students Should Budget For

The rent listed in a listing could not be the total amount that you have to pay.

• Utilities: Electricity, water/heating may not be combined.
• Internet: Internet access is provided in some rental units; others do not.
• Bond: There could be a bond to pay before renting.
• Furniture: As unfurnished rooms will require additional furniture spending.
• Travel: If you live far away from your university, you may find travel expenses higher.
• Accommodation: Meals will be included in homestays, but not in other types of accommodation.

That is why students should do their research on the Cost of accommodation in New Zealand before deciding. 

Student Accommodation Costs by City

Your accommodation budget can be influenced by the city chosen. The cost of student accommodation in Auckland New Zealand may be higher, as Auckland is one of the nation's biggest and most popular cities.

Students may also wish to explore student accommodation in Christchurch New Zealand, with lower prices in certain regions.

City-wise cost of student accommodation is given below:

City	Approximate Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre	Approximate Cost of 1-Bedroom Outside of City Centre
Auckland	NZD 1,816-2,900 (approximately INR 1.01L-1.61L)	NZD 1,800-2,520 (approximately INR 1.00L-1.40L)
Wellington	NZD 1,950-2,600 (approximately INR 1.08L-1.44L)	NZD 1,600-2,460 (approximately INR 88,900-1.37L)
Christchurch	NZD 1,990-2,430 (approximately INR 1.11L-1.35L)	NZD 1,400-2,210 (approximately INR 77,800-1.23L)
Dunedin	NZD 1,200-2,100 (approximately INR 66,700-1.17L)	NZD 1,000-1,630 (approximately INR 55,600-90,600)
Hamilton	NZD 700-2,100 (approximately INR 38,900-1.17L)	NZD 600-1,750 (approximately INR 33,300-97,200)

Note: Prices may vary depending on the location, type of property, and demand.

When comparing accommodation in New Zealand, don't just consider the rent. The farther your room is from your university, the cheaper it may be, but if farther, then it will cost you in other charges such as transportation fares.

Suggested Read: Cost of Living in New Zealand

How to Find Student Accommodation in New Zealand?

Students are encouraged to start looking for accommodation before arriving in New Zealand. Popular student cities are busy on Saturdays, especially in the run-up to the beginning of a new semester. 

When searching for housing in New Zealand, these are a few tips that will help you find a place:

• Visit University accommodation: Look at the university website and see what the halls and student housing options are. Fill out the registration by the deadline.
• Find shared housing: Search for rooms in shared houses and apartments. Discuss rent, bills, bond, and house rules.
• Compare private accommodation: Visit student residences and do private rental searches for comparisons of prices and facilities.
• Search early: Begin searching as soon as you have received confirmation of your university place. Have an alternative temporary tenancy in place.
• Prepare documents: Ensure you have your passport, offer of admission/ enrolment at university, and any other required rental documentation.
• Know the distance: Be familiar with the distance between your university, public transport and stores.
• Don't pay until you check: Make sure you have verified the property, owner, and rent agreement before paying the rent.

If students are unsure how to find accommodation in New Zealand, then visit the university's housing websites or trusted rental sites.

Understand how academics work with the Education System in New Zealand

Rental Agreement and Bond in New Zealand

Before moving into a rental property, read the agreement carefully. Make sure you understand the rent, bond, bills,s and rules. Small details in the contract can affect your real housing cost. Here are some types of rental agreements and bonds in New Zealand. 

Security Deposit or Bond

A bond is money paid to the landlord at the start of a tenancy. It may be used to cover unpaid rent or damage if required under the tenancy agreement.

• Check the bond amount before signing.
• Ask how and when it must be paid.
• Keep proof of your payment.
• Understand when the bond can be returned.
• Do not send money before checking that the rental is genuine.

If a landlord asks you to pay quickly without showing proper rental details, be careful.

Rent and Payment

Make sure you know how much rent you need to pay and how often you need to pay it.

• Check the weekly rent.
• Ask whether utilities are included.
• Check the payment date.
• Keep records of your payments.
• Ask about any extra fees.

Understanding these details can help you manage the cost of accommodation in New Zealand better.

Rental Contract

Your rental agreement should clearly explain the main terms of your stay.

Before signing, check:

• Weekly rent
• Bond amount
• Utilities and other bills
• Contract duration
• Notice period
• Furnishings included
• Maintenance responsibilities
• Rules for shared spaces
• Payment terms

Do not sign the agreement if you do not understand any part of it. Ask the landlord or housing provider to explain it first.

Address and Tenancy Details

If you have a permanent home, make sure that you have your rental agreement and address saved.

Your address may be required for university records, opening a bank account, insurance companies, or other service providers. Be sure to have your name and address spelled correctly when you rent.

Temporary housing might not be the same as permanent housing, so be aware of the rules before using it for official activities.

Applying soon? Here’s a practical guide on a Student Visa for New Zealand.

Best Websites to Find Student Accommodation in New Zealand

Students can find a room on university websites, student housing websites, and trusted rental websites. These resources may be helpful if seeking accommodation for international students in New Zealand. Don’t rely on just one website. Compare several options before choosing a place.

Student Accommodation Websites

Start with your university because it may offer student halls or provide housing information. The following websites may be useful in relation to student accommodation in New Zealand: 

• UniLodge New Zealand: Offers student rooms in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, with facilities such as study areas and common spaces.
• University Living: Provides international students with information and comparisons of student rooms near universities in New Zealand.
• UniAcco: Lists student accommodation in different New Zealand cities.
• uhomes: Offers studios, en-suite rooms and shared apartments.
• Canterbury Studentpad: Helps students find accommodation in Christchurch.

These websites are useful for accommodation for international students in New Zealand, especially if you want to book before arriving.

Shared Accommodation Websites

For students who want to share a house or apartment, these websites can help:

• Trade Me Flatmates Wanted: Find rooms and flatmates across New Zealand.
• Flathive: Search for shared rooms and connect with potential flatmates.
• Roomies: Find rooms and people looking for flatmates.
• Roomgo: Search for rooms and shared accommodation.

If you want to reduce the cost of studying, then learn about Fully Funded Scholarships in New Zealand.

Tips for Finding Affordable Student Accommodation in New Zealand

Spending less doesn't necessarily mean you are getting the lowest-priced room. An additional factor to consider is transport, bills, location, and safety. Another aspect to consider when you are looking for accommodation in New Zealand is asking some of the current students how easy it is to get around from your college.

Below are some pointers that provide you with simple tips that can impact in finding affordable student accommodation for students:

• Do early research: Research before you come to New Zealand.
• Consider shared housing: Living in a shared house can save on rent.
• Make comparisons with other areas: Rooms away from the city centre can be cheaper.
• Look for included items: See if electricity, internet, water, or heating are included.
• Compare options: Don't take the first room that you see.
• Have temporary housing as a fall-back plan: This will provide more time to find appropriate permanent housing.
• Read the contract: Read the rent, bond, bills, and notice period.
• Watch for scams: Do not send money before inspecting the property and signing the contract for the rental.

For accommodation for international students in New Zealand, shared houses, university halls, and homestays can be useful options to compare.

If you are still thinking about how to find accommodation in New Zealand, start with your university, compare several housing options, and never rush into paying for a room.