Discover New Zealand’s most affordable, welcoming, and student-friendly cities, which are perfect for international students who want a world-class education without the high cost.
New Zealand (NZ) has become a top destination for students looking to study abroad. This is due to world-renowned degrees, stunning landscapes, friendly communities, and a safe, multicultural environment. But there’s one big question every student asks first:
Which are the best cities to study in New Zealand cheaply?
This guide breaks down the most affordable NZ cities where international students can enjoy quality education and manage their expenses smartly. Whether you’re planning for 2026 or beyond, this detailed breakdown will help you pick a city that suits both your goals and your budget.
Throughout this blog, we will explore the best cities to study in New Zealand cheaply and reveal affordable NZ cities that offer great education, reasonable living costs, and tons of part-time opportunities.
Why Choosing the Right City Matters
The cost of living in New Zealand varies significantly by city. For example:
- Auckland and Wellington, although popular, are 30%–45% more expensive than smaller cities.
- Rent can jump from NZD 150/week in affordable NZ cities to NZD 300–400/week in big metros.
- Food and transport costs also vary widely depending on the region.
So choosing one of the best cities to study in New Zealand can save you over NZD 6,000–10,000 per year. It is a major benefit for international students.
Top 6 Cheapest Cities in NZ for International Students
Here we list the top 6 most affordable cities for international students.
1. Palmerston North
Home to Massey University, Palmerston North is often considered one of the most affordable NZ cities for students. Let’s see why that is.
Average Living Costs
- Rent: NZD 130–180/week (shared)
- Food: NZD 60–80/week
- Transport: NZD 20–25/week (excellent public transport)
- Total: NZD 250–320/week (significantly cheaper than Auckland or Wellington)
What Makes It One of the Best Cities
- Large student population → cheaper rentals
- Safe and peaceful
- Plenty of part-time jobs in retail, hospitality, and logistics
- Study-friendly environment
This is clearly one of the best cities to study in New Zealand affordably, and it continues to be ranked among the top affordable NZ cities for international students.
2. Dunedin
Dunedin is home to the prestigious University of Otago, known for research excellence and vibrant campus life.
Average Living Costs
- Rent: NZD 140–190/week
- Food: NZD 70–90/week
- Transport: NZD 10–20/week
Why Students Love It
- One of the cheapest student cities in NZ
- Strong academic culture
- Awesome student nightlife
- Very safe and community-oriented
Dunedin is easily among the best cities to study in New Zealand, offering both affordability and world-class academic institutions.
3. Hamilton
Hamilton hosts the University of Waikato, a popular choice for students in Engineering, IT, Business, and Education.
Average Living Costs
- Rent: NZD 150–200/week
- Food: NZD 70–90/week
- Transport: NZD 20–25/week
Why It’s a Smart Choice
- Close to Auckland (1.5 hrs), but much cheaper
- Expanding job market
- Calm lifestyle, great for focused studies
- Beautiful natural surroundings
Hamilton also ranks strongly among affordable NZ cities and attracts hundreds of Bangladeshi students every year for its balance of affordability and opportunities.
4. Christchurch
Home to the University of Canterbury and Ara Institute of Canterbury, the city blends affordability with modern academic opportunities.
Average Living Costs
- Rent: NZD 150–220/week
- Food: NZD 70–100/week
- Transport: NZD 20–30/week
Why Students Choose Christchurch
- Lower rent compared to Wellington
- Strong job opportunities in construction, IT, hospitality, and engineering
- Big city lifestyle without big city prices
Christchurch consistently ranks as one of the best cities to study in New Zealand for international students because it offers everything students want at a lower cost.
5. Invercargill
Invercargill is one of the most affordable NZ cities with some of the lowest rents in the country.
Average Living Costs
- Rent: NZD 100–150/week
- Food: NZD 60–80/week
- Transport: NZD 10–20/week
Extra Benefits
- Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) offers exceptional programs
- Very low crime rate
- Ultra-friendly community
- Cheapest rents in all of New Zealand
If you want to cut expenses dramatically, Invercargill is undoubtedly one of the best cities to study in New Zealand cheaply.
6. Napier & Hastings
Home to Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT), this sunny region offers a good mix of affordability, safety, and scenic beauty.
Average Living Costs
- Rent: NZD 140–180/week
- Food: NZD 60–90/week
- Transport: NZD 20–25/week
What Makes It Attractive
- Cheaper than Auckland or Wellington
- Growing tech and hospitality job market
- Amazing weather
- Great for students who prefer quiet coastal living
Napier remains one of the lesser-known but highly affordable NZ cities, perfect for students who want peaceful living on a budget.
Cost Comparison Table (Weekly Averages)
| City | Rent (NZD/week) | Total Living Cost (NZD/week) |
| Invercargill | 100–150 | 200–270 |
| Palmerston North | 130–180 | 250–320 |
| Dunedin | 140–190 | 260–330 |
| Hamilton | 150–200 | 280–350 |
| Christchurch | 150–220 | 290–360 |
| Napier/Hastings | 140–180 | 270–340 |
| Auckland (Reference) Expensive City | 250–350 | 450–550 |
| Wellington (Reference) Expensive City | 260–360 | 460–560 |
As you can see, the best cities to study in New Zealand are dramatically more affordable than the big metro cities. So choose wisely!
Which City Should You Choose?
- If you want the lowest cost: Invercargill
- If you want strong academics + affordability: Palmerston North or Dunedin
- If you want job opportunities + budget-living: Hamilton or Christchurch
- If you want seaside affordability: Napier/Hastings
Each of these cities is among the top affordable NZ cities, offering excellent education and manageable living expenses for Bangladeshi and international students.
Want to study in New Zealand on a budget?
AGP helps students choose the right city, right university, and right course with complete free guidance from admission to arrival.
Contact AGP now and start your New Zealand journey the smart way!
FAQs
- Which are the best cities to study in New Zealand cheaply?
Palmerston North, Invercargill, Dunedin, Christchurch, Hamilton, and Napier are the most affordable.
- Which city has the cheapest rent for students in NZ?
Invercargill offers the lowest rent, starting from NZD 100–150 per week.
- Are there affordable NZ cities with good job opportunities?
Yes – Hamilton and Christchurch offer strong part-time job markets.
- Is Dunedin affordable for international students?
Yes, Dunedin is one of the best cities to study in New Zealand, with excellent university life.
- What is the average weekly cost for students in affordable NZ cities?
Between NZD 250–350 per week, depending on the city.