In New Zealand, the cost of living is slightly lower than in Europe or Australia. This is a significant advantage for a Working Holiday Visa, especially if you're on a budget or still undecided between the two countries.
On this island at the ends of the earth, the cost of living for most everyday consumer goods is generally slightly lower than in Europe. One thing is certain: prices are not as high as in Australia, making it a viable option for those on a tighter budget, even though inflation has been noticeable since the Rugby World Cup victory in 2011. With Auckland ranking among the top 10 most livable cities in the world, New Zealand's quality of life is renowned worldwide. Across the country, the minimum wage was increased in April 2024 and is now $23.15 per hour. For an 8-hour workday, you will be paid an average of $185.20 (approximately €101). 1 NZ dollar = approximately €0.55.
For food , adapt to what's available locally, as European/imported products are expensive! Don't hesitate to buy directly from farms; fruits and vegetables will be cheaper there, as well as at supermarkets like Pak'n Save or New World . As for shopping , while prices were once advantageous, they have tended to rise in recent years and also fluctuate with exchange rates.
Regarding accommodation , be aware that rental prices are higher in major cities and their centers, particularly in Auckland. Consider moving further out and opting for a shared apartment to reduce costs. Queenstown, a medium-sized city, will certainly be cheaper than Wellington or Auckland, although the influx of tourists during the summer months does somewhat alter the situation. Of course, the cost of living in New Zealand will vary depending on your lifestyle, salary, preferences, and choices, especially regarding transportation .
To be realistic, budget a minimum of NZ$100 (€55) per person per day. Keep in mind, however, that your lifestyle and choices regarding accommodation and transport (shared accommodation, hostel, buying a van, bus travel, etc.) will determine your budget. In New Zealand, many things are paid weekly, such as wages and rent. NZ$1 is roughly equivalent to €0.55.
As a Working Holiday Visa holder in New Zealand , it is entirely possible to support yourself with part-time or full-time work , provided you manage your budget well and settle in a region that suits your lifestyle.
As of April 1, 2024, the minimum wage in New Zealand is:
👉 NZD 22.70 per hour (gross)
Which corresponds to approximately NZD 910 per week 40-hour contract .
💡 In euros: approximately €510 to €550 per week , depending on the exchange rate.
| Category | Average budget / month |
|---|---|
| 🏠 Accommodation (shared flat) | 900 – 1,200 NZD |
| 🍽️ Food | 400 – 600 NZD |
| 🚍 Transportation | 100 – 200 NZD |
| 📶 Internet / mobile | 40 – 80 NZD |
| 🎉 Leisure / Extras | 200 – 300 NZD |
| Estimated total | 1,700 – 2,300 NZD |
To live comfortably and cover your expenses , it is advisable to:
Earn a minimum of 800-900 NZD per week , which is equivalent to a full-time minimum wage job .
Having a job with accommodation provided (e.g., farm, hotel, helpX) to reduce your expenses.
Work more during peak season (summer or winter depending on the region) to save money.
Some jobs offer higher wages than the minimum wage, including:
Agricultural or fruit picking work with performance bonuses,
Hotels or restaurants in tourist areas (tips included),
Construction, logistics, industrial cleaning
Babysitting, half-pair, or working in hostels.
With a salary of NZD 22.70/hour or more , a working holiday visa holder can live comfortably in New Zealand , especially by sharing accommodation and avoiding overly expensive areas like Queenstown or central Auckland. Good budget management even allows for travel within the country while still saving money.
👉 Need help finding a job quickly on a Working Holiday Visa? Visavacancestravail.be offers employment assistance in its New Zealand packages.
What budget should you allocate to finding accommodation in New Zealand ? The average rent in New Zealand depends on the city , the type of accommodation (shared flat, studio, room in a private home), and the season (prices rise in summer and during peak tourist season). Here's an overview of typical rents for working holiday visa holders in 2025:
| Type of accommodation | Average price (NZD) / week | Price in euros (≈) |
|---|---|---|
| Room in a shared apartment | 200 – 300 NZD | 110 – 170 €/week. |
| Host family (half board) | 300 – 400 NZD | 170 – 230 €/week. |
| Studio / private accommodation | 400 – 600 NZD | €230 – €340/week. |
| Youth hostel | 30-45 NZD / night (in a dormitory) | 110 – 160 €/week. |
💡 Rents are almost always calculated on a weekly basis in New Zealand.
| City | Average weekly rent (shared accommodation) |
|---|---|
| Auckland | 250 – 300 NZD |
| Wellington | 220 – 280 NZD |
| Queenstown | 280 – 350 NZD |
| Christchurch | 200 – 250 NZD |
Highly touristy cities like Queenstown or Auckland CBD are more expensive.
⚠️ Security deposit equivalent to 2 to 4 weeks' rent
⚡ Utilities (water, electricity, internet) sometimes extra
🏠 The ads are often posted on TradeMe , Flatmates Wanted , or the PVT Facebook groups
A working holiday visa holder in New Zealand spends on average 900 to 1,200 NZD per month (approximately €500 to €700) on shared accommodation . This budget can be reduced by choosing smaller towns or opting for a job with accommodation included (farm, hostel, half-pair, etc.).
👉 Need accommodation upon arrival? Visavacancestravail.be's Working Holiday packages include temporary accommodation and on-site job assistance.
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
