Can’t stop thinking about New Zealand’s dramatic mountains, luscious forests and sandy beaches? You’re certainly not alone. If you’re planning to move to this paradise for work, study, or retirement, understanding the cost of living in New Zealand is key to budgeting wisely.
In 2025, factors like high housing demand, shifting transportation costs, and inflation can all affect your monthly expenses. That’s why Remitly created this guide to help you plan confidently by breaking down current costs for housing, groceries, dining, transportation, healthcare, and education.
Being proactive about budgeting, exploring government support, and making informed spending choices will go a long way in helping you thrive in your new home.
Housing costs in New Zealand
Despite stabilized inflation at 2.5%, New Zealand housing costs remain a significant expense, with notable price differences between major cities and rural areas. It’s a good idea to factor this into your moving plans, as housing will have a big impact on affordability.
New Zealand housing costs are generally high in cities like Auckland and Wellington, while Christchurch and rural areas tend to be more affordable. We break down the average costs below.
Urban housing costs
In Auckland, the average house price is $1,245,626 NZD, while monthly rent is around $2,756 NZD.
In Wellington, the average house price stands at $840,884 NZD, while monthly rent is around $2,692 NZD.
In Christchurch, the average house price is around $769,984 NZD, while monthly rent averages $2,344 NZD.
Rural housing
Housing costs are generally lower in rural areas. For instance, the West Coast region offers some of the most affordable housing, with average house prices around $447,242 NZD and monthly rent prices ranging from $1,572 to $2,300 NZD.
Additional housing expenses
Beyond the cost of renting or buying property, there are other expenses worth factoring in:
- Utilities: Monthly costs for electricity, garbage, water, cooling, and heating for an apartment range from $145 to $400 NZD, depending on location and usage
- Internet: Unlimited internet plans average $85.88 NZD per month
Food and groceries
The average food costs in New Zealand have risen over the past year, due to rising dairy and coffee prices. This impacts grocery prices as well as the cost of dining out.
Grocery expenses
Monthly grocery bills typically range from $500 to $700 NZD for one person, depending on dietary preferences and shopping habits. A family of four can expect to spend between $1,400 and $2,000 NZD monthly on groceries, influenced by location and food choices.
According to Numbeo, these are the average food prices (in NZD):
- Milk (one liter): $2.99
- Loaf of bread (500g): $3.24
- Rice (1kg): $3.08
- Eggs (12): $12.79
- Local cheese (1kg): $13.77
- Chicken fillets (1kg): $12.87
- Apples (1kg): $4.69
- Bananas (1kg): $3.77
- Oranges (1kg): $5.10
- Tomatoes (1kg): $7.80
- Onions (1kg): $2.90
- Bottled water (1.5 liter): $1.92
Dining out costs
Budget-friendly options: Cafes and casual eateries offer meals ranging from $10 to $45 NZD.
Mid-range restaurants: Expect to pay between $89 and $200 NZD for a three-course meal.
High-end dining: Fine dining establishments may charge $50 to $80 NZD per person for dinner.
For more affordable culinary options, restaurants such as Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Indian are popular choices, offering meals at reasonable prices.
Transport costs
The cost of travel in New Zealand has been going through some changes, influenced by fare adjustments, fuel prices, and a growing emphasis on sustainable commuting options:
Public transportation costs
Public transport fares have increased in major cities:
Auckland: Fares rose by an average of 5.2% in early 2025, with the removal of off-peak discounts and a simplified zone system across buses, trains, and ferries.
Wellington (Metlink): A 2.2% fare increase is set for July 2025, alongside a 30% off-peak discount for Snapper card users. These adjustments reflect efforts to balance operational costs while encouraging off-peak travel.
The average transportation costs include:
- One-way ticket (local transport): $4 NZD
- Monthly pass (regular price): $176.25 NZD
- Taxi start 1km (normal tariff): $3.50 NZD
- Taxi one hour waiting (normal tariff): $60 NZD
Fuel prices
As of May 2025, the average price of regular gasoline is $2.68 NZD per liter, while diesel averages $1.83 NZD per liter.
Costs of running a car
Approximate annual expenses for car owners in New Zealand include:
- Fuel: $3,000 NZD
- Maintenance: $1,000 NZD
- Insurance: $1,000 NZD
- Parking: $500 NZD
- Registration and warrant of fitness: $300 NZD
These estimates are based on typical expenses, and actual costs can vary based on factors like vehicle type, usage, and location.
Sustainable and cost-effective commuting options
To reduce travel costs and the impact on the environment, many New Zealanders are turning to more sustainable ways of commuting. Cycling and walking are ideal for short distances, offering health benefits and zero fuel costs. Cities like Wellington and Christchurch have dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly routes to make these options safer and more accessible.
One money-saving tip is to use public buses and trains during off-peak hours to benefit from discounts. In major cities, using a prepaid travel card like an AT HOP or Metrocard can also help you save on fares.
Sharing rides is a great way to reduce the cost of transport in New Zealand. Employers are also encouraged to support these alternatives by providing facilities like secure bike parking and showers.
Healthcare costs
One reason you may be thinking of moving to New Zealand is because of its highly regarded healthcare system.
Public healthcare
The New Zealand public healthcare system is funded through taxes and provides many essential services either free or at a subsidized rate.
Doctor’s visit fees vary by practice and patient eligibility. For adults, it usually ranges between $38 and $62 NZD, though this will be cheaper if you have a Community Service Card (CSC). Teenagers pay less and for children under 14 it’s free.
Some specialist tests and consultations may cost more, however they are often subsidized, particularly for those with serious health conditions.
Private healthcare
If you’re planning your move to New Zealand, you may want to consider paying for private healthcare for shorter wait times and more personalized services. Private General Practitioner (GP) visits can cost between $35 and $60 NZD, while specialist consultations can range from $160 to $280 NZD per session.
Many residents opt for private health insurance. The annual prices vary based on age and coverage, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 NZD for individual plans. For families, annual premiums typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 NZD. Those opting for more comprehensive policies may pay higher premiums.
It’s good practice to consider your budget and select what best suits your needs.
Education and childcare
New Zealand’s world-class education and childcare options makes it an attractive option for people all over the world. Costs vary depending on institution type and chosen services.
Public and private schooling
Education at state schools is free for domestic students—this includes permanent residents as well as citizens. However, schools may request voluntary donations and charge for extracurricular activities.
Private school fees vary by institution. For example, Wentworth primary in Auckland charges $4,365 NZD per term, while Wentworth college charges $5,670 NZD per term.
Daycare and preschool fees
Private daycare costs range from $7 to $12 NZD per hour, with full-time monthly fees costing $800 to $2,000 NZD.
The New Zealand government provides 20 hours of free early childhood education per week for children aged three to five. You can use this subsidy for up to six hours a day.
International student expenses
New Zealand has a growing reputation for high-quality international education. If you’re going to be studying in New Zealand, it’s a good idea to know what costs you’re likely to face so you can make sure you’re fully prepared.
Tuition fees for students vary by program and institution. For example, the University of Auckland charges $38,568 NZD for a Bachelor of Education (teaching) and $86,561 NZD for a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (Year 2 onwards).
Estimated annual costs for international students range from $13,000 to $22,000 NZD, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
Overall, international students can expect total annual expenses (tuition and living costs) to range from $35,000 to $59,000 NZD, depending on the course.
Additional expenses to consider
Beyond essential living costs, there are other expenses worth bearing in mind for your budget, like entertainment, fitness, insurance, as well as where you choose to live.
Entertainment and leisure
Entertainment expenses vary across activities:
- Movies: Between $10 to $14 NZD
- Concerts: Between $80 and $130 NZD
- Adventure sports: Over $60 NZD
Weekly entertainment spending also varies by city, so it’s wise to budget 10% extra to avoid surprises.
Fitness and gym memberships
Gym membership costs in New Zealand vary:
- CityFitness: Offers memberships starting at $7.99 NZD per week and $18.99 NZD for premium membership.
- Jetts Fitness: Home-only memberships begin at $11.99 NZD per week and $13.99 NZD for all clubs.
- Les Mills: Membership fees vary by location and commitment length. $33.50 NZD for 12 months and $30.20 NZD for 24 months.
Some community centers also offer affordable fitness options.
Insurance premiums
If you’re calculating whether New Zealand could be an affordable home for you, make sure to factor in insurance.
Insurance costs have gone up a lot over the past year. For example, car insurance has increased by about 46% since 2023, with annual premiums now ranging from $481 to $1,296 NZD.
Average premiums for house insurance have also risen, with some areas like Wellington exceeding $4,000 NZD annually. The average cost for contents insurance is around $823 NZD per year.
These increases are caused by factors like inflation, natural disaster risks, and rising costs of repairs.
Regional cost variation
Where in New Zealand you choose to settle is also going to have a big impact on your monthly expenses. So, in Auckland you’re likely to pay more for housing and transport, while in Tauranga housing will be cheaper, but grocery prices will be higher.
It’s worth being aware of these variations as they can have a significant impact on your lifestyle and peace of mind.
Tips for managing costs
Moving to New Zealand in 2025 comes with a variety of financial challenges, but here are some practical strategies to help you prepare effectively and make sure you’re financially resilient.
Cook at home
Dining out can be expensive. Opting to cook at home can significantly reduce food expenses. Grocery shopping at budget-friendly supermarkets like Pak’nSave and Woolworths can help keep your weekly food costs between $120 and $175 NZD.
Use free outdoor activities
New Zealand has stunning scenery and offers many free natural attractions, including hiking trails, beaches, and scenic parks. They’re a great way of getting to know your new area without denting your budget.
Travel smart
Transport costs can add up, but here are some ways to save:
- Campervan travel: Combining transportation and accommodation, campervans can be a cost-effective option, especially when using free campsites.
- Ridesharing: Platforms like CoSeats and Carpool World connect travellers for shared rides.
Leverage government support
New Zealand provides financial assistance for housing costs, with adjustments based on regional living expenses. The government also offers tax credits to eligible families, helping to offset living expenses.
Conclusion
While the cost of living in New Zealand in 2025 can be high, especially in major cities like Auckland and Wellington, many people find the high quality of life, safety, and lifestyle worthwhile.
With smart financial planning, you can live comfortably and enjoy everything New Zealand has to offer. Whether you’re moving for work, study, or a new adventure, taking the time to understand and prepare for everyday expenses can make your transition smooth and fulfilling.
FAQ
Is it more expensive to live in Auckland than other parts of New Zealand?
Yes, Auckland is the most expensive city to live in New Zealand, especially when it comes to rent and groceries. Smaller cities like Dunedin or regional areas typically offer lower housing and transport costs.
Do international students need private health insurance in New Zealand?
Yes, international students need private health insurance while studying in New Zealand. This is because they’re ineligible for publicly funded healthcare unless they have residency status.
Can you live comfortably in New Zealand on a single income?
It depends on your lifestyle and location. While living in larger cities with high housing costs can be challenging, many families manage well on a single income in smaller towns or by budgeting carefully.
How do costs compare between owning a car and using public transport?
Public transport is more affordable in urban areas like Wellington and Auckland. However, in rural areas or less connected regions, owning a car may be more practical despite the higher fuel and maintenance costs.