Monthly cost of living for students in New Zealand
Monthly budget
| Cost | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | NZ$800 to NZ$1,400 (Auckland highest) |
| Food and groceries | NZ$350 to NZ$500 |
| Transport | NZ$80 to NZ$150 with tertiary concession |
| Utilities and phone | NZ$120 to NZ$200 |
| Health insurance | About NZ$60 to NZ$80, compulsory |
Total: NZ$1,600 to NZ$2,400 a month; immigration expects NZ$20,000 a year.
By city
| City | Room rent | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Auckland | NZ$250 to NZ$350 a week for a room | Buses, trains and ferries with an AT HOP card. |
Offsetting costs with part-time work
25 hours a week during term (raised from 20 in November 2025), full time in scheduled holidays. At NZ$23.50 an hour adult minimum wage (2025), twelve to fifteen hours a week covers a meaningful share of living costs but never tuition.
Practical tips
- The University of Auckland and the University of Otago are the two largest and oldest universities.
- The polytechnics return to standalone status from 2026 after a period merged as Te Pūkenga.
- New Zealand is one of the least corrupt and safest countries in global indices.
- The Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Learners is a legal standard every provider must meet.
- Māori culture is woven into university life, from welcome ceremonies to language courses.
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
Get this checked for your case
Rules change and every application is different. A counsellor confirms the current position for your country and course. Free.
Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
How long can I stay in New Zealand after studying?
Up to three years on the Post-Study Work Visa if you complete a bachelor's degree or higher. Some lower-level qualifications qualify for shorter periods only if they are on the Green List.
How much money must I show for a New Zealand student visa?
NZ$20,000 a year for living expenses (NZ$1,667 a month for shorter periods) plus evidence that tuition is paid or funds to pay it.
Are New Zealand degrees recognised internationally?
Yes. All eight universities sit in the QS top 500 and qualifications are recognised across the Commonwealth, the US and Europe.