Finding accommodation in New Zealand

Finding accommodation when you first arrive can be a job in itself.

Below are tables of the median house prices and weekly rents in New Zealand:

Major city median house prices

Source: Quotable Value - April 2010

Major city median weekly rents – 3 bedroom houses

Source: Department of Building and Housing (period 1 Nov 2009 to 30 Apr 2010)

Renting a property

A common approach to finding accommodation is purchasing a copy of ‘The Herald’ or via a website, which list available properties to rent and flats to share.

Some useful websites are as follows:

• TradeMe
• Flat Finder

Generally the first payment will include 2-4 weeks rent in advance, as well as a bond equivalent to the same.

The Department of Building and Housing website provides some useful information on your rights and obligations as a tenant.

Temporary accommodation on arrival

If you have not organised somewhere to stay, you can do so at the airport. The cost and quality can vary greatly. Some accommodation places will provide a transfer for you. Seek help from staff at the arrivals information desk.

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