What Does Student Accommodation Include? A Practical Guide for NZ Students

Student accommodation in New Zealand can feel like a mystery. Many students assume their rent covers everything, but that’s rarely true. From Auckland to Dunedin, what’s included varies wildly. Let’s cut through the confusion and break down exactly what you’ll get - and what you’ll need to pay for separately.

What’s Typically Included in Student Accommodation

Most student housing in New Zealand includes basic furniture like a bed, desk, and wardrobe. Utilities such as electricity, water, and high-speed internet are standard. Common areas like kitchens, lounges, and study spaces are shared. Security features like key fobs, CCTV, or secure entry systems are also common. For example, at the University of Auckland, student halls usually cover these essentials. You won’t need to worry about setting up internet or paying for water bills.

What’s Usually Not Included

While essentials like furniture and utilities are covered, students often pay extra for groceries, laundry, phone bills, and sometimes gas. In Auckland, private rentals might include electricity but not gas, meaning you’ll handle heating and cooking costs yourself. Laundry facilities are common, but using them typically costs $1-$2 per load. Meal plans are rare outside homestays or specific university halls. Always check your lease for hidden fees like cleaning charges or guest fees.

Regional Differences Across New Zealand

Student accommodation varies by location. In Auckland, university-provided housing usually includes utilities but not meals. Smaller university towns like Palmerston North or Dunedin often offer more inclusive packages due to lower costs. For instance, Massey University’s student village in Palmerston North includes electricity, water, and internet in the rent, but students still need to cover groceries. In Wellington, private rentals might include fewer amenities to keep prices competitive. Always research location-specific norms before signing a lease.

Types of Student Housing Compared

Key Questions to Ask Before Signing

Always verify these details before committing:

• Which utilities are included? (Electricity, gas, water, internet)
• Are cleaning services part of the rent?
• What’s the security deposit amount and refund policy?
• Are there extra fees for guests or pets?
• Is there a laundry facility, and does it cost extra?

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many students overlook these pitfalls:

• Assuming all utilities are covered - always double-check the lease
• Forgetting to budget for food - most accommodations don’t include meals
• Not reading the fine print on security deposits - some landlords deduct for minor wear
• Ignoring laundry costs - using shared machines can add up quickly
• Choosing based solely on price - consider location and included amenities