Living costs
The cost of living in New Zealand is similar to that in Australia, and less than in Britain. Tertiary students should budget for up to NZ$20,000 a year in living expenses.
Indicative costs
- $100 to $200 a week for accommodation
- 50 cents to post a letter within New Zealand
- $4.45 for a Big Mac at McDonald's
- Free local phone calls from a home phone
- $10 to $15 to go to the movies
- $1.60 for a 1-stage bus fare
Education expenses additional to fees
Living and study costs vary according to your age, the course you are taking, and the type of accommodation you choose. Use the following estimates as a guideline.
Tertiary
- Textbooks and stationery $500 a year
- Student ID card $20
- Students' association membership $30
- Photocopy cards $100
- Bus fares $30 to $60 a week
- Coffee in student cafeteria $1 to $3 a cup
- Hot meals in cafeteria up to $7 for a one-course meal
Secondary school
- Stationery $150 a year
- School trips $30
- Special courses such as IELTS $300
- Examination fees: NCEA $200 to $400, plus $100 per scholarship subject.
- Materials for special subjects such as art and photography $50 to $300.
- Uniform $300 to $500 (or up to $1,000 at some private schools)
- Bus fares $30 a week
- Incidental expenses $30 a week
Induction & orientation New Zealand’s Tax system