LIVING IN NEW ZEALAND
Living experience adds a part to the learning experience. The high standard of living at reasonable price, security, warm and welcoming climate and equally hospitable New Zealanders impart an astounding living experience in New Zealand. Geographical and social diversity spans throughout the nation giving you an opportunity to choose your living place according to your preferences.
Location and Climate
In the long and narrow island nation wherever you choose to study, you’ll never be far from a beach, some native bush or some wide open spaces. New Zealand hosts a generally temperate climate- generally warm, dry summers and relatively mild, wet winters. The country receives snowfall from early June until early October, though cold snaps can occur outside this season. Snowfall is common in the eastern and southern parts of the South Island and mountain areas across the country.
The choice of place of stay may be based on ease of commuting to education provider, financial capability to meet cost of living, availability of part-time jobs and available housing options in the area.
Culture
The beautiful blend of American, Australian, Asian and other European cultures with the predominant Māori culture is something to be experienced in New Zealand. New Zealanders are one of the most hospitable on the planet in that they believe by offering hospitality, generosity and mutual respect everyone involved comes out better off. Now this is an evolving destination for international students and migrants alike, you will get to make life long connections with people from both inside and outside New Zealand.
Cost of living
The cost of living is way higher when compared to that of Nepal and may vary depending upon which city you settle in. However, the overall cost of living is comparable to other developed countries. According to a survey conducted by Mercer in 2016 in major cities of 209 countries in terms of cost of living, Auckland city ranks 98th and Wellington 123rd. The higher the rank the lesser is the cost of living. The more expensive cities, for the sake of comparison, included Hong Kong ranking 1st, Singapore 5th, New York City 11th, London 17th, Perth 69th, and Melbourne 71st. New Zealand offers standard of living similar to these countries but at a lesser price.
Fees range from about $22,000 to $32,000 for Bachelor degree, less for diploma/certificate compared to that of bachelor degree, $26,000 to $37,000 for post graduate degree.
The fees will be higher for subjects such as medicine and veterinary science.
Cost of living |General fee range
2016 Cost of Living Survey | Mercer
Human Development Report 2016 | UNDP
Accommodation
It’s a good idea to have some accommodation organized before you arrive in New Zealand. As a student, mainly three different housing options are available:
1. Hall of residence
2. Homestay
3. Rent
Living in hall of residence or homestay will provide you an opportunity to make new friends quickly. You will also get to familiarize yourself quickly with unique New Zealand’s culture. You can also choose to rent and share a house with friends.
In order to know about the available accommodation options and other specific information, you will need to contact your education provider.
Recreation
New Zealand not only offers world class education but also offers stunning landscape, unique biodiversity, golden beaches, rolling green farmland and snow covered mountains. What raises your adrenaline if the bungy jumping doesn’t? The climate is also friendly enough to travel at time of your convenience and enjoy the myriad of experiences this spectacular country has to offer.
Things to do in New Zealand
New Zealand – Wikipedia
