There is a wide range of accommodation options in New Zealand, particularly in cities, but also in some more remote areas. You simply need to choose according to your needs, preferences, budget, and the planned length of your stay during your Working Holiday Visa in New Zealand .
An economical and practical way to start your trip, hostels are also the best type of accommodation for meeting travelers from all over the world. A bed in a dorm will cost you between $30 and $50 per night. Hostels offer a host of free and paid services such as Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and more. If you are affiliated with a hostel network like YHA , you'll get discounts on rooms within their network, as well as on certain hostel activities and services (for example, YHA offers free Wi-Fi in all its affiliated hostels). Don't hesitate to choose independent hostels, which often offer other advantages, including lower prices.
An ideal choice for settling into a city, shared accommodation allows you to meet other young people and immerse yourself in New Zealand culture. Rental prices, higher in major cities and their centers, decrease as you move further out and opt for shared accommodation. Rent in Auckland , for example, a city slightly more expensive than others due to its size, ranges from $170 to $295 per week in the city center for a single room in a shared apartment.
Outside the city center, expect to pay between $165 and $200 per week. In Wellington , which is almost as expensive as Auckland, you'll find shared accommodation for around $230 per week, while expect to pay around $160 in the suburbs. In Queenstown , a smaller city, a shared flat will cost you about $180 per week, and you can even find one-bedroom apartments for $270. Be aware, however, that prices tend to rise during peak season, which coincides with ski season and summer.
When looking for a rental or shared accommodation, ask the landlord as many questions as possible . For example, be aware that many rental properties are unfurnished , so make sure that basic necessities (fridge, washing machine, bed, etc.) are provided.
Also check the location of the property to ensure the neighborhood is well-served by public transport to avoid any travel hassles. Take the time to visit the property thoroughly to avoid any unpleasant surprises. It's important to know that your landlord is not allowed to ask for rent more than two weeks in advance and has the right to change the rent every 180 days .
The landlord can request up to four weeks' rent as a security deposit , which will be returned to you at the end of the lease. Always keep proof of any payment you make, and above all, never pay anything without having seen the property and reviewing all points of the rental agreement with the landlord.
It's practically impossible to go to New Zealand without camping , so it's best to be prepared! Keep in mind, however, that wild camping is prohibited to avoid any trouble (a practice that has become increasingly regulated). You'll have the choice between private campsites (Holiday Parks) or DOC ( Department of Conservation ) campsites. For private campsites, expect to pay between $7 and $20 to pitch your tent; other costs may apply, such as hot water, electricity, etc. These campsites also offer the option of renting a bungalow or a bed in a dormitory. There are options to suit all tastes.
Regarding DOC campsites, you'll find basic pitches with little more than access to cold water. Expect to pay between NZ$6 and NZ$12 for a pitch; many require you to put money in a box, and some are even free. These sites are located in more natural settings, such as beaches, forests, or national parks, offering a completely different experience in the heart of nature. However, be sure to respect the environment; littering can result in hefty fines.
The average cost of accommodation in New Zealand for a working holiday visa holder depends on several factors: the city , the type of accommodation (shared flat, hostel, homestay, etc.), and the length of stay . Here is an overview of average prices in 2024-2025:
| City | Room in a shared apartment (per week) | Private room in a private home |
|---|---|---|
| Auckland | 220 to 300 NZD / week | 250 to 350 NZD / week |
| Wellington | 200 to 280 NZD / week | 240 to 320 NZD / week |
| Queenstown | 250 to 350 NZD / week | 300 to 400 NZD / week |
| Christchurch | 180 to 250 NZD / week | 220 to 300 NZD / week |
💡 1 NZD ≈ €0.55 - €0.60 → A shared flat at 250 NZD costs €135 – €150 / week , or approx. €550 – €600 / month .
Hostels/backpackers : 30 to 45 NZD per night in a dormitory, or approximately 900 to 1200 NZD/month . Ideal for the first few weeks.
Homestay ( board ): 300 to 400 NZD per week.
Studios or private apartments : rarer for working holiday visa holders, from 400 NZD/week (often out of budget for solo travelers).
Rents are often paid weekly (and not monthly).
A security deposit (bond) equivalent to 2 to 4 weeks' rent is generally required.
Check if the charges (electricity, internet) are included
Request a written contract for added security.
Some regions, such as Queenstown or Wanaka, are more expensive due to high tourist demand.
Flatshares can easily be found on TradeMe, Flatmates Wanted (Facebook), or the notice boards in hostels.
Finding accommodation in New Zealand is one of the first key steps when embarking on a Working Holiday Visa (WHV) . Whether you arrive in Auckland, Wellington, Queenstown, or Christchurch , several options are available depending on your budget, length of stay, and lifestyle. Here are our practical tips for easily finding suitable accommodation for WHV holders .
Before your arrival, it is strongly recommended that you book a hostel or short-term accommodation for 1 to 2 weeks . This will allow you to acclimatize, take care of necessary paperwork (banking, obtaining an IRD number, job searching, etc.) and take the time to visit local shared accommodations.
💡 Popular options:
Youth hostels
Visavacancestravail.be Working Holiday Visa arrival packages , including accommodation and administrative procedures
an apartment is by far the most economical and sociable solution for young people on a Working Holiday Visa. You share accommodation with other travelers or locals, while reducing your expenses.
🔎 The best websites for finding a flatshare in New Zealand:
Facebook groups: Flatmates Wanted Auckland , Queenstown Rentals , Working Holiday Visa New Zealand , etc.
Notice boards in hostels or cafes
💡 Tip: always visit before committing and avoid sending money without having signed a contract or seen the accommodation.
Homestay : ideal if you take English lessons upon arrival via Visavacancestravail.be
Studio or private accommodation : more expensive, often reserved for couples or long-term stays
Cities marked with an asterisk (*) are eligible for Job Assistance
Cities marked with an asterisk (*) are eligible for Job Assistance
Cities marked with an asterisk (*) are eligible for Job Assistance
