Image Source: Unsplash

This article was written by Johanna Cider.

Johanna rekindled her childhood love for writing and literature while writing a first-year essay in university. She now happily works as a freelance writer in her beautiful hometown of Wellington, New Zealand. Discover more of Johanna’s work on Tumblr.

New Zealand’s diverse education system, friendly culture, and wide range of fun activities and natural attractions regularly attract students from all around the world. However, for any international student, managing living costs while studying at University can be a real challenge. Follow these inside tips for a better chance at saving money during your stay in New Zealand.

Cheap Places to Live

Accommodation costs and the general cost of living in New Zealand varies from region to region. Christchurch has lower rent costs than other major cities like Wellington and Auckland.  Wellington and Auckland are two of New Zealand’s more expensive cities – however, they are home to some of the nation’s most prestigious universities and offer a wide range of fantastic job opportunities.

Living as a homestay is one of the cheapest forms of accommodation in New Zealand, as homestay families generally incorporate all living costs such as power, food, and broadband. However, if you’d prefer to rent a house with friends, you can save a tonne of money on power and broadband by choosing a bundle plan.

Most students from abroad choose to stay in university flats, halls, or apartments – which are some of the best places to meet people and form friendships. Costs vary depending on room type (e.g. size, proximity to the school) and the length of your stay.

Image Source: Unsplash

Outdoor Activities

A great thing about New Zealand is that many of its best activities can be enjoyed for free. New Zealand is known for its stunning natural beauty and bountiful locations such as beaches, public parks, and walking tracks that help entice people to get active outdoors. The South Island is home to breath-taking mountains, botanic gardens, waterfalls, lakes and glaciers, making it one of the best places in the world for sightseeing.

The North Island boasts a wide range of amazing beaches, from surf beaches to quiet, picturesque bays – perfect for a weekend picnic or a swim with friends and family. The best part is, you usually don’t have to travel very far to reach one. If you’re living in Auckland, there are a number of wonderful bays which are only a short distance from the city centre, including Mission Bay, St Heliers and Takapuna Beach.

Many of the North Island’s most beautiful beaches are also located near campgrounds and holiday parks, where you can camp out with friends at minimal cost. This is one of the most popular ways for students to spend New Years’ Eve and the holidays.

Cheap Eats

Eating out in New Zealand doesn’t have to break your budget. There are loads of fantastic cheap eats available in cities all throughout the country. Asian-style restaurants are usually a safe bet, as they generally offer great value for your money. Backpacker bars and student bars also regularly offer great deals on food and drinks.

Image Source: Unsplash

Shopping

In terms of cheap shopping, outlet centres are the way to go. NZ outlet centres offer some of the best deals on popular fashion brands. Located in Onehunga, Dress Smart is New Zealand’s largest outlet shopping centre. Here you’ll find amazing discounts on clothes, make-up, stationary, technology and food. You can take a free shuttle from Auckland city to get there. This outlet mall is usually very busy, especially on weekends, so prepare to deal with crowds.

Hamilton and Christchurch also have Dress Smart shopping centres, but they aren’t as big as the one in Auckland. If you’re based in Wellington, make sure to check out Outlet City, which is only 10 minutes away from the CBD. This outlet centre has over 30 local and international fashion brands.

*Keep in mind that most tertiary education institutions in New Zealand offer student discount cards, which will allow you to save a tonne of money on transport, food, shopping, and entertainment.

If you’re looking for work while studying in New Zealand or after graduating, you can use local job-hunting sites for a better chance of finding a job. Whether you’re looking for part-time work, temp roles, or a casual position, there are a range of vacancies regularly available throughout the country.

Johanna rekindled her childhood love for writing and literature while writing a first-year essay in university. She now happily works as a freelance writer in her beautiful hometown of Wellington, New Zealand. Discover more of Johanna’s work on Tumblr.