Cost of Living in New Zealand

• All applications must be submitted online when the visa is ‘open’ for applications.
• Some schemes require applicants to be in their home country when applying.
• Depending on circumstances, applicants may need to provide a medical certificate or undergo medical examinations.
• Once granted, the visa must be activated by arriving in New Zealand within the specified timeframe.

1. Groceries and Food

• Shop at budget-friendly stores: Pack N Save and Countdown generally have competitive prices compared to smaller chains. Check out weekly specials and use online price comparison tools like the app Glimp to find the best deals.
• Buy in bulk: Purchase non-perishables and household essentials in bulk from places like Costco (in Auckland) or from wholesale suppliers.
• Buy seasonal produce: Fruits and vegetables are often cheaper when they’re in season. Farmers’ markets can offer fresher and sometimes cheaper options than supermarkets.
• Meal prep: Preparing meals for the week reduces reliance on takeaways and makes it easier to avoid buying extra ingredients.

2. Housing and Utilities

• Consider flatting: Sharing a house or apartment can significantly reduce rent and utility costs. Websites like Trade Me Property and Flatmates.co.nz are good places to find affordable flatting options.
• Insulate to save on heating: Proper insulation can help you save on heating costs during winter. If you’re renting, check if your property meets the healthy home standards for insulation.
• Use energy efficiently: Choose energy-efficient appliances, switch to LED bulbs, and turn off appliances when they’re not in use. You can compare electricity and gas providers with Powerswitch to find the cheapest option in your area.

3. Transportation

• Use public transport: NZ’s public transportation system is generally reliable, and you can save a lot by getting a public transport card (e.g., AT HOP in Auckland, Snapper in Wellington) instead of paying for individual fares.
• Carpool: If you own a car, consider carpooling with friends or coworkers to save on fuel. Check apps like Carpool NZ or see if your employer offers any carpooling programs.
• Use fuel discounts: Supermarket chains like Countdown and New World offer fuel discounts with grocery purchases, so keep an eye out for these to save on petrol.

4. Entertainment and Activities

• Explore free outdoor activities: New Zealand is known for its natural beauty, and many outdoor activities like hiking, visiting national parks, and beach outings are free or low-cost.
• Look for discounts: Websites like GrabOne and BookMe often offer discounts on local activities, restaurants, and services.
• Utilize libraries: Many local libraries offer free or cheap access to books, e-books, movies, and even workshops and events.

5. Shopping and General Expenses

• Buy second-hand: Thrift stores (like Salvation Army, Hospice Shops, and Trade Me for online) have great deals on clothes, furniture, and household goods.
• Wait for sales: Major sales like Boxing Day, Black Friday, and mid-year sales offer great discounts, so consider holding off on big purchases until then.
• Use rewards programs: Many New Zealand supermarkets, gas stations, and even pharmacies have loyalty programs that let you accumulate points for discounts. Fly Buys and New World Clubcard are popular options.

6. Health and Wellness

• Enroll in the public healthcare system: New Zealand has a robust public healthcare system, and residents and some visa holders are eligible for subsidized care. Ensure you’re enrolled to reduce healthcare costs.
• Consider a gym alternative: Instead of a costly gym membership, take advantage of outdoor workout spaces, community fitness programs, or even online classes to stay fit.

7. Financial Management

• Track your spending: Apps like PocketSmith (a New Zealand-based budgeting app) help you monitor spending, set saving goals, and manage finances.
• Set a savings goal: Start with small, achievable goals, like saving a certain percentage of your monthly income or setting aside a weekly amount.

8. Insurance and Bills

• Review insurance policies: Shop around for the best deals on car, home, and contents insurance, as rates vary. Comparing policies on Glimp or MoneyHub can help you find competitive prices.
• Bundle your services: Many telecom providers offer discounts for bundling internet, mobile, and landline services.