Student Life & Accommodation

Cities and campuses

Auckland is the largest city and has the most jobs. Wellington is the capital with a creative, government and tech scene, and Christchurch and Dunedin are well-known student cities. Hamilton, Palmerston North and Lincoln are smaller, safer and cheaper. New Zealand is known for friendly people, clean air and outdoor life, with hiking, beaches and skiing all close to the main cities.

Where to live

• University halls of residence: a popular first year with meals and a ready-made community. Apply early.
• Flatting: sharing a house with other students is the normal way to live. Check who pays power and internet, and always ask for a written tenancy agreement.
• Homestay: a good option for younger students or at the start.

Tenancy tips

• Do not pay a bond or rent for a place you have not seen or checked.
• In New Zealand the bond must be lodged with the government’s bond service, and it is returned at the end of the tenancy if there is no damage.
• Check heating and insulation. Winters are mild but houses can be cold and damp.

Settling in

• Open a bank account in the first week and get an IRD number if you plan to work.
• International students are protected by the Code of Pastoral Care, so your provider must support your wellbeing, and you can complain if you are not treated fairly.
• Driving is on the left. You may need a New Zealand licence or a translation of a foreign one.
• Join the Nepali student association or community group for support, food and festivals.

Our accommodation page has more on finding a place.

Check before you rely on it. Rents and tenancy rules vary by city, and the pastoral care rules can be updated. Rules, fees and dates are changed by governments often. We last reviewed this page in October 2026. Confirm the current position on Study in New Zealand: living in New Zealand or ask our counsellors, who check it again before your file is submitted.

Talk to WIEC about New Zealand

Our Lalitpur counsellors can review your marks, English score and finances and tell you honestly which courses and universities fit. Book a free appointment, start your file online at Apply Online, or practise for the English test with IELTSWIZZ.