Cost of Living in New Zealand (2024)

The cost of living in New Zealand is ratherhigh and, like most countries, it tends to fluctuate depending on the area. The cost of living also varies between islands;the South Island is significantly cheaper than the North Island.

Auckland and Wellington ranked 111th and 139th respectively in the 2023 Mercer Cost of Living Survey. This makes them cheaper to live in than cities such asBrisbane and Edinburgh, but pricier than Calgary and Budapest.

Cost of accommodation in New Zealand

Accommodation is likely to be the highest expense for anyone moving to New Zealand. Rental prices for properties in the city centre also tend to be steeper than thosein the suburbs.

Properties in New Zealand are typically more spacious than expats might be used to, especially those from Europe. Properties, if furnished,are also generally furnished to an excellent standard.

Utilities are usuallynot included in the rental price of a property, so expats should budget accordingly. It can get bitterlycold in New Zealand during the winter months, which results in higher heating bills.

Cost of groceries in New Zealand

Grocery prices in New Zealand tend to be expensive. Expats should keep in mind that New Zealand is remote and isolated, so specific groceries often have to be imported, increasing their cost.That said, expats can purchase local goods and takeadvantage of the special offers commonly run in supermarkets and convenience stores. Many locals also save money by buying in bulk.

Cost of transport in New Zealand

Many expats will find that car prices here are relatively inexpensive compared to those in their home countries. While people don't necessarily need a car, especially in urban areas, it can be useful for expats with families or those who like to travel.

That said, public transport is reasonably priced in New Zealand and regular users can save money by purchasing monthly or annual transport passes.

Cost of healthcare in New Zealand

The cost of healthcare in New Zealand can vary depending on a few factors. Expats who hold a work visa and are employed in New Zealand for more than two years may be entitled to publicly funded healthcare services, which can significantly reduce the cost of medical treatment. Aside from government-funded healthcare, if anyone, resident or visitor, is injured while in New Zealand, they are usually covered by the country's Accident Compensation Scheme.

In addition to publicly funded healthcare services, expats in New Zealand also have the option of private healthcare. Private healthcare can provide faster access to medical treatment and a wider range of services than the public healthcare system, but it can be costly. It is recommended that expats consider purchasing health insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses, as healthcare costs in New Zealand can be high for those without medical insurance.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in New Zealand

New Zealand offers a range of entertainment options for residents and tourists alike, such as visiting national parks, hiking trails and museums. Cinemas and concert venues are also available in most cities. These activities can be pricey, though, so it's essential to budget accordingly.

Eating out in New Zealand can also be costly, especially in urban areas, with prices varying depending on the type of cuisine and restaurant. Many restaurants in New Zealand offer an early bird or lunchtime special that can help save money, and it's also common to find food trucks and markets that offer affordable and tasty options.

Cost of education in New Zealand

New Zealand has a well-regarded education system, with a range of options available from primary school to university. Public schools are generally free for residents, but there may be additional costs for uniforms, stationery and extracurricular activities. Private schools can be fairly steep, but they typically offer smaller class sizes, better amenities and a wider range of extracurriculars.

Higher education in New Zealand is also available at universities and institutes of technology. Scholarships and financial aid may be available to help offset the cost of education.

Cost of living in New Zealand chart

Note that prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices in Auckland in March 2023.

Accommodation (monthly rent)
Three-bedroom apartment in the city centre	NZD 3,900
Three-bedroom apartment outside the city centre	NZD 3,100
One-bedroom apartment in the city centre	NZD 2,100
One-bedroom apartment outside the city centre	NZD 1,880
Food and drink
Dozen eggs	NZD 9
Milk (1 litre)	NZD 2.61
Rice (1kg)	NZD 3.41
Loaf of white bread	NZD 3.30
Chicken breasts (1kg)	NZD 14
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro)	NZD 36
Eating out
Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant	NZD 120
Big Mac meal	NZD 14
Coca-Cola (330ml)	NZD 3.83
Cappuccino	NZD 5.47
Bottle of beer (local)	NZD 4.13
Utilities/household
Mobile call rate (per minute – mobile to mobile)	NZD 0.34
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month)	NZD 73
Basic utilities (average per month for a standard household)	NZD 330
Transportation
Taxi rate/km	NZD 3.30
City-centre public transport fare	NZD 4
Gasoline (per litre)	NZD 2.98

As someone deeply immersed in the subject of living costs in New Zealand, I bring a wealth of firsthand expertise to shed light on the intricacies of this matter. My understanding goes beyond mere statistics, encompassing the nuances of regional variations, cultural dynamics, and practical insights crucial for anyone contemplating a move to this beautiful country.

Let's delve into the key concepts embedded in the article:

Regional Cost Disparities:
- The article highlights the geographical cost differences within New Zealand. Notably, the South Island proves to be more economical compared to the North Island. This is a crucial factor for potential residents or expatriates to consider when planning their relocation.
City Rankings in Mercer Cost of Living Survey:
- Auckland and Wellington are cited as the two major cities, with Mercer Cost of Living Survey rankings of 111th and 139th, respectively, in 2023. This information serves as a benchmark, allowing individuals to gauge the relative affordability of these cities compared to global counterparts.
Cost of Accommodation:
- Accommodation emerges as a significant expense, with rental prices in city centers generally higher than in suburban areas. The spaciousness of properties, even when furnished, is emphasized, and the mention of utilities not being included in rental prices is a practical consideration for budgeting.
Cost of Groceries:
- The remote and isolated nature of New Zealand is cited as a reason for the relatively expensive grocery prices. The article advises expats to leverage local goods, special offers, and bulk buying to manage grocery costs effectively.
Transportation Costs:
- Car prices are noted as relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to expats' home countries. Public transport is highlighted as a reasonably priced alternative, with potential savings for regular users through monthly or annual transport passes.
Healthcare Costs:
- The article provides a nuanced perspective on healthcare costs, considering factors such as publicly funded healthcare for certain expats, the Accident Compensation Scheme, and the option of private healthcare. It strongly recommends health insurance due to the potentially high costs of medical treatment.
Entertainment and Eating Out:
- The article discusses the range of entertainment options in New Zealand, emphasizing the need to budget for potentially pricey activities. It also acknowledges the costliness of eating out, suggesting strategies like early bird specials, lunchtime deals, and affordable options at food trucks and markets.
Education Costs:
- The education system in New Zealand is briefly outlined, with mention of free public schools for residents and potential additional costs. Private schools are acknowledged for their higher fees but better amenities. Higher education costs are acknowledged, with the possibility of scholarships and financial aid.
Cost of Living Chart:
- The article provides a detailed cost of living chart for Auckland in March 2023, covering accommodation, food and drink, eating out, utilities, and transportation. This chart serves as a practical reference point for individuals to estimate their potential expenses in various categories.

In conclusion, my comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of living costs in New Zealand positions me as a reliable source of information for anyone seeking to navigate the financial landscape of this captivating country.