New Zealand & Auckland Cost of living
You will need approx. NZ$10,000 to NZ $12,000 for general Auckland living costs per year. These living costs include accommodation.
- Textbooks: $50 (approx) each
- MacDonalds Combo $5.95
- Movie Tickets $14.50
- Coca Cola per can $1.20
- Music CD $30.00
- Levis Jeans $150.00
- Coffee (cappuccino, latte) $3.00
- Supermarket per week $50.00
- AIS St Helens shuttle from city to AIS St Helens campus is free
- Link Bus (around Auckland central city) $1.50
Food
Auckland is a cosmopolitan city with a wide variety of restaurants serving food from all over the world. There are also many Asian supermarkets where ingredients are readily available.
Work
International students at tertiary level studying on Degree or at least 2 year Diploma programmes are able to work 15 hours per week.
Weather
Mean temperatures (Degrees Celsius)
Auckland: January 19.4 - 23.1, July 10.9 - 14.1
Click here for today's weather in Auckland.
Seasons
Spring: September to November
Summer: December to February
Autumn: March to May
Winter: June to August
Things you need to know:
Banking and travellers cheques
Trading bank hours are 9am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. Banks are closed at weekends and public holidays, however travellers cheques can also be cashed at bureau de change, hotels and some shops.
Business and shop hours
Offices and businesses are usually open from 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday. Shop hours vary. Most are open 9am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday with a late night either Thursday or Friday, and 10am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday.
Driving
Reciprocal driving rights exist between New Zealand and most countries. Many rental car companies will ask for an International Driver's Licence and the driver must be over 21 years of age.
Medical facilities
Health insurance for visitors to NZ is strongly recommended, as medical services are not free to them. Pharmacies can give advice on minor medical problems and a range of drugs are available without prescription.
Postal services
Post offices are open during business hours and closed at weekends, however stamps can also be bought at many stationers and dairies and post boxes are easily found.
Telephones
Public telephones use phone cards, which can be bought at many shops, dairies and gas stations. New Zealand's international access code is 64.
Tipping and service charges
Tips or gratuities are not routinely expected, however many people tip to show their appreciation for extra service or kindness.
Visitor Information
Information and service is available throughout Auckland at Visitor Information Network offices. Here experienced staff can provide reliable information ranging from transportation and accommodation to local attractions and activities.
For more info, go to: www.ubd.co.nz