Student Accommodation in New Zealand

International student accommodation in New Zealand has increased dramatically, with as much as a 67% gain in new enrollments being reported in 2023. Growth isn't concentrated solely in Auckland. States like Otago and Canterbury are fast becoming top choices among students looking for a good education paired with a unique feel of culture.

Perfect combinations of academic excellence, affordability in their lifestyle, and stunning natural surroundings definitely make these regions more attractive to students across the globe. These states have varied programs and post-study opportunities that fulfil the diversity of academic and professional goals.

Cost for International Student Accommodation in New Zealand

The cost of student accommodation in New Zealand varies depending on the choice of the state. Here is the breakdown of the approximate cost of living for the students.

• Cost of Student Accommodation in New Zealand ranges from INR 12,300 to INR 19,680 (NZD 250 to NZD 400) per week in residence halls to slightly more affordable options in self-catered apartments ranging from INR 8,850 to INR 14,750 (NZD 180 to NZD 300 per week with utilities generally included.
• Shared rentals cost INR 5,900 to INR 12,300 (NZD 120 to NZD 250) per week, although this price usually does not include utilities. Private apartments are more expensive, ranging from INR 14,750 to INR 24,580 (NZD 300 to NZD 500) per week, not including utilities.
• Auckland is the most expensive city with rentals starting from INR 9,830 (NZD 200) per week. In Dunedin, the rentals are cheap and cost about INR 7,370 (NZD 150) per week for shared accommodations. Wellington again falls in the mid-range and offers shared rentals costing INR 8,850 to INR 12,300 (NZD 180 to NZD 250) per week.
• Additional costs in terms of utilities have to be incurred from INR 980 to INR 1,960 (NZD 20 to NZD 40) per week. Food will range from INR 2,950 to INR 4,910 (NZD 60 to NZD 100) per week.

Types of Accommodation in New Zealand for Indian Students

Accommodation options can be found that respect the cultural and dietary requirements of Indian students. The following is a rough layout of the types of accommodation in New Zealand:

• On-Campus Accommodation: First-year students can be accommodated comfortably since halls of residence range from INR 12,300 to INR 19,680 (NZD 250 to NZD 400) per week, and self-catered apartments cost NZD 180 to 300 per week.
• Off-Campus Accommodation: It offers more independence and shared rentals, which go for 5,900 to INR 12,300 (NZD 120 to NZD 250), and private apartments that start from INR 14,750 to INR 24,580 (NZD 300 to NZD 500) per week.
• Homestays: You will live with a host family. Many of them include meals that can accommodate Indian dietary needs for INR 14,750 to INR 24,580 (NZD 300 to NZD 500) per week.
• Managed Apartments: Fully furnished and professionally managed to strike a balance between having your own space and community, costs vary from INR 12,300 to INR 22,130 (NZD 200 to NZD 450) per week.

Private Rentals: You can live independently with prices ranging from INR 14,750 to INR 29,500 (NZD 300 to NZD 600) per week, but students will need to organise furniture and utilities on their own.

On-Campus Accommodation

On-campus accommodation in New Zealand offers students unmatched convenience by placing them right next to their academic buildings, libraries, and dining halls. This proximity minimises commuting time and helps students dive into campus life more easily, fostering a stronger sense of community. It's a fantastic option for first-year students eager to make friends quickly and fully immerse themselves in the university experience.

• A room for a week, in general, would cost anything between INR 12,300 to INR 19,680 (NZD 250 to NZD 400) at a dormitory or in a hall of residence. The self-catered apartments are cheaper with the utilities included.
• Campus housing is rather competitive and is usually given priority among undergraduate freshmen and international students. Some universities may guarantee accommodation for first-year students if they apply before a specified deadline.
• Students desiring on-campus housing can do so as soon as the applications open. The students usually transact through the housing portal from the university. Some levels of application procedures call for some form of a deposit or an advance to be paid for confirmation. Terms and conditions, including the cancellation policy, should be well-reviewed before finalising the application process.

Off-Campus Accommodation

Students at Off-Campus Accommodation in New Zealand have added freedom and independence where shared rentals, private apartments, and homestays are all put on the table.

• Costs for shared rentals are generally INR 5,900 to INR 12,300 (NZD 120 to NZD 250), while private apartments can be slightly more than this without the utilities.
• Off-campus housing can be found on online websites, notice boards on campuses, and through a local real estate agent. A search for these should be started in advance so that one gets a place to stay before the start of the academic term.
• Due to demands and competition, especially for bigger towns like Auckland and Wellington, students should start hunting for accommodations well in advance of their time of arrival.
• The campus is a bit far, so budgeting for transportation and time management to get to school is essential. 

Private Rentals/Flats Accommodation

Private rentals in New Zealand are housing units like apartments, houses, or flats that are rented out by private landlords. These accommodations are popular among international students, professionals, and families. The rental market varies greatly depending on the location, with urban centres like Auckland and Wellington being more expensive than rural areas.

Rental costs vary by location. In major cities like Auckland, expect to pay between INR 24,580 to INR 34,440 (NZD 500 to NZD 700) per week for a two-bedroom apartment, whereas in smaller towns, it may be a bit cheaper.

Tenants usually pay a bond equivalent to four weeks' rent, which is refundable at the end of the tenancy if no damage is found. Utilities such as electricity, water, and internet are typically not included in the rent and must be budgeted separately.

Before entering a lease, it's essential to familiarise yourself with New Zealand's rental laws, which are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act. Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a tenant can prevent legal disputes.

Homestay

Homestay in New Zealand with a local host family in this way gives you the sense and feel of real life in a specific cultural environment. You will have your own room and free meals, and thus you will experience real-life living in New Zealand. A Homestay shall work perfectly for an international student or a new arrival.

Costs of a homestay generally fluctuate in the region about INR 12,300 to INR 19,680 (NZD 250 to NZD 400) per week, depending on location and services. These service charges generally include accommodation, meals, and utilities.

One of the biggest advantages of homestays is the contact with the host family. It could help a student better get adjusted to the visited country. The host family is checked for the security of the homestay. It is also advised to keep in touch with the host family regularly to make sure everything is going well and to get rid of any kind of concern.

Managed Student Apartments

Managed Student Apartments in New Zealand are purpose-built student accommodations where students can share or have a private unit. They are fully furnished with all the necessary facilities, such as a kitchen and bathroom, but in addition to this, there are areas to study and socialise in that enhance the student experience.

• Most of the managed student apartments boast an in-house laundry facility, a gym, a study room, and a communal lounge. High-speed internet, utilities, and sometimes cleaning services are included in the price to make life simple for students who are pressed for time.
• The living cost in managed student apartments ranges from INR 12,300 to INR 22,130 (NZD 250 - NZD 450) per week, depending on the location, room type, and amenities. This would generally include utilities, the Internet, and access to all on-site facilities.

Key Factors for Choosing the Best Student Accommodation in New Zealand for International Students

Here are the key factors for finding the best student accommodation in New Zealand :

1. In choosing student accommodation in New Zealand, the first thing that an international student needs to do is work out the budget—the amount that can be afforded for rent, utilities, and other living expenses.
2. The location plays a big role where somewhere closer to campus cuts down on commuting time and cost, though possibly at a premium. Another equally important assessment is the safety of the place and access to it.
3. Amenities such as high-speed internet, laundry facilities, and gym access can make a big difference in your living. Managed apartments and most of the homestays offer more amenities compared to private rentals, so it is important to be very clear about what you want about your lifestyle needs and study requirements.
4. Preferences also play a big role, whether you are into independent living or prefer a homestay or managed student apartment. One needs to conduct detailed research and set priorities. Students studying at present can also give good advice after going through the reviews.

Student Accommodation Locations in New Zealand

Here are some of the student accommodation locations in New Zealand :

• Auckland: Auckland is New Zealand's largest city and harbours some of the biggest universities. University of Auckland and AUT. Most of the student's favourite areas are CBD, Grafton, and Newmarket. There is an edge for accommodation in these areas: proximity to the campus and amenities of outstanding state transport through buses or trains.
• Wellington: The city is the country's capital, boasts a lively arts scene, and is home to Victoria University of Wellington. Kelburn, Te Aro, and Aro Valley are some of the suburbs around that students seem to gravitate toward, possibly due to their proximity to the university. These suburbs offer all types of accommodation and are well-served by the capital's comprehensive bus network.
• Christchurch: Christchurch is home to the University of Canterbury and Lincoln University. The University of Canterbury makes suburbs like Ilam and Riccarton always in demand from students. The areas are bike-friendly and well-served by public buses, so access to the university or city central is not a problem.
• Dunedin: Dunedin is a very student-oriented city. It's home to the University of Otago, and North Dunedin, especially around Castle Street, and is in high demand by students since it's just next to the campus. Students mostly walk or cycle about the city, which is compactly laid out.

Hamilton: Hamilton is home to the University of Waikato and features several student-friendly communities, including Hillcrest and Hamilton East. They are well positioned in proximity to the university campus and have access to public bus services for easy commuting.

Takeaway

Ready to find the perfect student accommodation in New Zealand? Let AECC guide you to the ideal spot near top universities, balancing budget, location, and amenities. Contact us today to get started!