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Living in Auckland

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and the country’s commercial hub, with a population of approximately 1.5 million people. It is a safe, clean, multicultural and vibrant city that offers an excellent quality of life.

Auckland is rated the 1st most liveable city in the world on The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) 2021.

The city sits between two harbours and is often referred to as the “City of Sails” due to Aucklanders’ love of water sports and the sea. Auckland’s unique geographic position means you can live in a large city with great cafés, restaurants and bars, excellent theatres, galleries and museums and terrific shopping and still be close to stunning beaches and nature walks.

It also consistently rates as one of the best places globally to live and study in.

Living Costs

Homestay estimated weekly cost in NZD

Generally you should allow approximately NZ$20,000-$27,000 per year (or NZ$400-$500 per week) for general living costs, including accommodation, food and transport. International student support staff can assist you with budgeting if you need assistance. 

 

Additional costs: 

  • Flights to and from New Zealand
  • Tuition fees
  • Clothes

 

Covering your living costs:

To get a New Zealand student visa, students must prove that they can cover their living costs. These can vary depending on which part of New Zealand students study in, what sort of lifestyle they want to live, and whether they can get a part-time job. Most student visas allow students to work up to 20 hours a week in term time, and full-time in the holidays.

Cost of LivingHomestay estimated weekly cost in NZ$
Accommodation$360 – $390
Electricity, water and gasIncluded in homestay fee
InternetIncluded in homestay fee
Mobile phone plan$5 – $15
Public Transport$0 – $35
FoodIncluded in full-board homestay fee
Free time activities$50 – $150

This table is only applicable to Homestay prices. 

Experience everything New Zealand has to offer.

New Zealand has it all – a great lifestyle, diverse communities, vibrant cities, stunning natural scenery and an unbeatable range of outdoor activities.

University is about more than gaining a qualification, and Auckland City shines with opportunity. The New Zealand Government’s Code of Practice requires education providers to keep students safe and well during their study, including during their recreational time.

Auckland offers a huge range of cultural activities, while those who love the great outdoors have glaciers, mountains, rainforests and coastlines to explore.

You may be surprised by how much of our spectacular country you will be able to explore during your study breaks. See stunning scenery and unique wildlife, climb gorgeous mountains and swim in sparkling lakes and beaches. 

For a change of pace, try some of New Zealand’s famous adventure sports and activities – from bungy jumping to white water rafting. Our mild climate means tourism runs all year round. With a good network of domestic airlines, and affordable buses and trains, it is easy to reach all the experiences, beauty and wide-open spaces that New Zealand has to offer.