UUNZ Institute of Business

Auckland is spread out over a large area, with a wide mix of established and new housing, so there really is something for everyone. If the house you prefer or can afford is half way across town from your work, just remember to factor in travel times.

There is a range of high quality accommodation options in Auckland. You can experience the Kiwi lifestyle first hand and be part of a local family with homestay accommodation, or you may prefer the independence of a student hostel. You could rent a house or apartment with friends.

Your living costs will depend on your lifestyle and the type of accommodation you choose, so it’s important to look at all your options carefully before committing to any long-term contracts. It’s a good idea to book some temporary accommodation for your first few nights in Auckland, such as a backpackers or youth hostel. This will give you a temporary base while you find permanent accommodation.

Accommodation types you can choose when you firstly come to Auckland including: Hotels, Motels, Homestays, Flatmate, and Services Apartments.

You may need to look around for a while to find a warm house in a neighbourhood you like which is close to schools, transport, shops and where you work.

As well as getting out and looking yourself, you should ask friends and the people you work with for advice. They may even know of places for rent - in New Zealand many good properties are let through word of mouth without being advertised.

Always visit a property before you commit to renting or buying it.

Remember that here in the southern hemisphere; it’s the north facing properties that get the most sun. Because the climate in New Zealand varies so widely - for example, winter is generally much warmer in northern areas than in the south - the issue of heating will be more important in some regions than others.