Living Expenses in New Zealand 2025

Understanding the cost of living is key to a smooth transition. From housing and groceries to transportation and leisure, this blog unpacks everything you need to know about managing your living expenses in New Zealand so you can focus on your studies and make the most of your experience! 

Studying in New Zealand offers Indian students an excellent opportunity to gain a world-class education in a vibrant and welcoming environment. ​However, it is vital for prospective students to understand the living expenses associated with relocating to this beautiful country.​ 

In 2024, the average cost of Living expenses in New Zealand for international students is estimated to range from NZD 15,000 to NZD 25,000 per annum, depending on various factors such as location, lifestyle, and personal spending habits. Let’s dive into the detailed insights into these financial aspects. 

Living Expenses for International Students per month in New Zealand

Understanding the living expenses in New Zealand is crucial for Indian students who are planning to pursue their education abroad. The expenses can vary significantly based on several factors, such as the city of residence, accommodation type, and personal lifestyle choices. The table below breaks down the key components of Living expenses in New Zealand to provide a clearer picture for prospective students.

Expenses	Cost	In INR
Accommodation  1.1 Fully Furnished	NZ$3,887	₨ 186,968
1.2 Unfurnished	NZ$3,199	₨ 153,870
Groceries 2.1 1 liter of whole-fat milk	NZ$2.49	₨ 120
2.2 12 eggs, large	NZ$11	₨ 537
2.3 1 kg (2 lb.) of tomatoes1 kg (2 lb.) of potatoes	NZ$9	₨ 416
2.4 Bread for 2 people for 1 day	NZ$2.94	₨ 142
Transportation 3.1 Monthly ticket public transport	NZ$185	₨ 8,917
3.2 1 liter (1/4 gallon) of gas	NZ$2.77	₨ 133
3.3 A basic new car	NZ$46,501	₨ 2,236,478
Clothing 4.1 1  pair of jeans	NZ$133	₨ 6,378
4.2 1 pair of sports shoes	NZ$198	₨ 9,507
Health Expenses	NZ$50-NZ$100	₨ 2,417- 4,835

Top 5 Cities to study and their Cost of Living

New Zealand is renowned for its high-quality education system and encourages numerous international students to pursue their studies. Understanding the cost of living in these cities is crucial for prospective students to plan their finances effectively.

• Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, is a prime destination for international students. It boasts diverse cultural experiences, top-notch educational institutions, and a vibrant urban environment. 

The monthly living expenses in Auckland are NZD 3,662, including rent.

• Wellington

As the capital city, Wellington is known for its rich arts scene and strong academic institutions, such as Victoria University of Wellington. The city offers a mix of study and cultural experiences.

The city’s average monthly living cost is NZD 3,566, including rent.

• Christchurch

Christchurch, often referred to as the “Garden City,” is celebrated for its beautiful parks and recreation areas. It is home to several reputable universities, such as the University of Canterbury.

Christchurch’s average monthly living cost is NZD 2,888, including rent.

• Hamilton

Hamilton is recognized for its hospitable community and proximity to the University of Waikato. The city combines educational opportunities with outdoor recreational activities.

Hamilton’s average monthly living cost is NZD 2,749, including rent.

• Dunedin

Dunedin, known for its rich Scottish heritage, hosts the prestigious University of Otago. The city promotes a strong academic community alongside vibrant cultural experiences.

Dunedin’s average monthly living cost is NZD 2,888, including rent.

Let’s catch a quick summary of the expenses in New Zealand’s popular cities:

Cities	Average Monthly Expenses
Auckland	3,662
Wellington	3,566
Christchurch	2,888
Hamilton	2,749
Dunedin	2,888

Why Indian Students Prefer To Study Abroad

New Zealand’s combination of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and professional opportunities makes it especially appealing. Here are some reasons why Indian students  should consider studying in New Zealand:

• Highly-Rated Education System

New Zealand’s education system is highly rated globally, with institutions such as the University of Auckland consistently ranking among the top 100 universities worldwide. 

• Diverse Range of Courses

Indian students can choose a variety of courses from over 400 institutions, which ensures that they find programs that align with their career aspirations.

Thinking of making a career in sports? Here read: Exploring best sports programs in New Zealand

• Post-Study Work Opportunities

International students are permitted to work in New Zealand for up to three years after graduation. Approximately, 41,784 New Zealand student visas have been granted to Indian international students in the last 5 years, which demonstrates significant interest in the post-study work options available.

Also checkout: New Zealand work visa requirements altered with immediate effects

• High Quality of Life

New Zealand is regularly ranked as one of the safest and most peaceful countries globally, with the Global Peace Index ranking it 2nd out of 163 countries in 2023.

Also read: 15 top highest paying jobs in New Zealand

Top 5 Universities and Average Costs of Studying 

New Zealand is home to several esteemed universities known for their academic excellence and vibrant campus life. ​The following are the top five universities in New Zealand, their average tuition fees, and some of their most popular courses.

Universities	Average Tuition Fees	Top Courses
University of Auckland	Undergraduate: NZD 32,000 to NZD 40,000 per year. Postgraduate: NZD 38,000 to NZD 50,000 per year.	Business: Known for its comprehensive programs in business and management. Engineering: Offers strong courses in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering. Health Sciences: A leader in research and training for healthcare professionals.
University of Otago	Undergraduate: NZD 28,800 to NZD 35,000 per year. Postgraduate: NZD 28,000 to NZD 37,000 per year.	Health Sciences: Distinguished in medical and clinical research. Humanities: Offers a broad range of programs including history, languages, and literature. Business: Includes innovative programs in management and marketing.
Victoria University of Wellington	Undergraduate: NZD 30,000 to NZD 38,000 per year. Postgraduate: NZD 31,000 to NZD 40,000 per year.	Political Science: Renowned for its research in public policy and political theory. Law: Offers a comprehensive legal education, frequently ranked among the best in New Zealand. Creative Arts: Known for programs in music, theatre, and film.
University of Canterbury	Undergraduate: NZD 30,000 to NZD 36,000 per year. Postgraduate: NZD 34,000 to NZD 45,000 per year.	Engineering: Offers high-quality programs supported by industry partnerships. Earth Sciences: Renowned for its research in geology and environmental science. Education: Strong focus on teacher training and educational leadership.
University of Waikato	Undergraduate: NZD 28,000 to NZD 32,000 per year. Postgraduate: NZD 35,000 to NZD 40,000 per year.	Business: Offers cutting-edge programs in business analysis and management. Environmental Science: Focus on sustainability and conservation studies. Information Technology: Strong emphasis on cybersecurity and software development.

Scholarship For Student In India

To manage living expenses in New Zealand, the country offers numerous scholarship opportunities for international students, including those from India. These scholarships can significantly help in covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs. Below is a comprehensive list of some prominent scholarships available to Indian students wishing to study in New Zealand.

Scholarships	Overview	Amount Granted
New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA)	The New Zealand Excellence Awards are specifically designed for Indian students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies.	Typically ranges from NZD 10,000 to NZD 20,000.
Vice Chancellor’s International Excellence Scholarship for India	This scholarship is offered by the University of Waikato to assist Indian students beginning their undergraduate or postgraduate studies.	NZD 15,000.
New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS)	This prestigious award caters to international students, including Indians, wishing to pursue a PhD in New Zealand.	Includes tuition fees, a tax-free living stipend of up to NZD 25,000, and health insurance.
Ah Nua Scholarship	The University of Canterbury offers this scholarship aimed at international students.	NZD 5,000.
AUT International Scholarships	Auckland University of Technology (AUT) provides scholarships for its international students.	NZD 3,800 to NZD 11,700 depending on the program.
Massey University High Achiever Scholarships	This scholarship is designed for full-time undergraduate students.	NZD 3,000 per annum.

Also read: Manaaki Scholarship | A Complete Guide

Tips to Save Money while Studying in New Zealand

Saving money is crucial for achieving financial stability and reaching your financial goals. Here are some practical tips that can help individuals effectively manage Living expenses in New Zealand.

Create a Budget

Establishing a budget is an essential step in understanding your income and expenses. Here are steps you can follow to create a budget:

• Calculate your total monthly income from all sources.
• Document all fixed and variable expenses, such as rent, utilities, groceries, and entertainment.
• Use your budget to identify areas where you can cut back and prioritize savings.
  

Automate Savings

Setting up automatic transfers to a savings account can make saving easier and more consistent.

• Arrange for a portion of your paycheck to be deposited directly into a savings account.
• If direct deposit isn’t possible, schedule regular transfers to your savings account from your checking account.

Reduce Unnecessary Expenses

Identifying and reducing non-essential expenses can free up more money for savings. Limit restaurant visits and opt for home-cooked meals, which can save a significant amount over time.

Find Ways to Save on Groceries

Groceries often make up a large portion of monthly expenses. Adopting smart shopping habits can lead to substantial savings. To do so follow the below steps:

• Plan your meals for the week and create a shopping list to avoid impulse buys while grocery shopping.
• Look for coupons, discounts, and loyalty programs from your local grocery stores to save on your purchases.

Your next read: New Zealand’s top sectors with high job opportunities

Summary

Studying in New Zealand offers Indian students a world-class education, but managing living expenses is equally crucial for a successful experience. This blog covers the key aspects of living expenses in New Zealand, including accommodation, groceries, transportation, and health costs, while also highlighting differences based on cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

For those who are aiming to minimize costs, scholarships such as the New Zealand Excellence Awards and the Vice Chancellor’s International Excellence Scholarship provide financial relief. The blog also shares Tips like budgeting, automating savings, and reducing unnecessary expenses to help students save money effectively.

Additionally, the blog highlights New Zealand’s top universities and post-study work opportunities making it a compelling choice for Indian students. With proper financial planning, students can focus on academics while enjoying the cultural and scenic beauty of this vibrant country.

FAQs

Ques 1: What are the average living expenses in New Zealand for international students?

Answer 1: The average living expenses for international students in New Zealand range from NZD 15,000 to NZD 25,000 per year, depending on the city, lifestyle, and personal spending habits.

Ques 2: How much are the living expenses in New Zealand for Indian students?

Answer 2: For Indian students, living expenses typically range from NZD 1,250 to NZD 2,083 per month. These costs include rent, groceries, transportation, and other essentials.

Ques 3: What is the cost of living in Auckland for international students?

Answer 3: Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, has higher living expenses. The average cost of living in Auckland for international students is approximately NZD 3,662 per month, including rent.

Ques 4: Are living expenses in New Zealand different for Indian students compared to others?

Answer 4: Living expenses in New Zealand are generally similar for all international students. However, individual spending habits and lifestyle choices can influence the overall cost.

Ques 5: How can I save on living expenses in New Zealand as an Indian student?

Answer 5: Indian students can save money by:

• Sharing accommodation to reduce rent.
• Cooking at home instead of eating out.
• Using public transportation or student discounts on travel.
• Applying for scholarships to cover tuition and living costs.

Ques 6: Do Indian students require proof of funds for living expenses in New Zealand?

Answer 6: Yes, Indian students must provide proof of funds to cover at least NZD 20,000 per year for living expenses when applying for a student visa in New Zealand.