Cost of Living in Hamilton

In order for you to realistically plan for your expenses while you are living in Hamilton, you need to have some idea of the costs involved which will be in addition to your international tuition fees. You will find the cost of living in Hamilton is a lot less expensive than in other major cities throughout New Zealand.

This page provides an estimated range of living costs so please use them as a guideline only. All prices are quoted in New Zealand dollars. Use the online Currency Converter to check the latest exchange rates.

In addition to your tuition fee and airfare, you can expect to need up to a further NZ$12,000 per year for living costs, however this will depend on where and how you live, and does not take into account further travel, entertainment or personal expenses.

Personal and Other Costs

Rent: $80 - $180

Furniture: Generally houses for rent in New Zealand are unfurnished, so if you are moving into an unoccupied house, you will need to supply furniture. This is especially common at the start of the academic year (February/March), when local "student" houses have been vacant over the summer vacation.

Groceries/Food: $60 - $100

Lunch/Takeaways: $30 - $80

Entertainment: $40 - $200 per month (depending on your choice of activity)

Toll Calls: $50 - $250 per month

We recommend that you have access to an emergency fund of about $2,000 at all times (enough to be able to fly home immediately if necessary).