Monthly COST Of Living In NEW ZEALAND 2023 [Budget Guide]

Why Should You Move to New Zealand?

Hey Friends! The Cost Of Living In New Zealand makes it possible to Live For Around $1,640 – $6,200 (NZD 2,590 – NZD 9,750) Per Month.

In this article, we’ll go deep with all the tables of expenses, Videos, and more of what you’ll need to consider when Moving to New Zealand. We will take you from zero to helping you know what you need to expect before moving to New Zealand. We have been Digital Nomads for over 5 years and have been traveling the world full time.

We moved to New Zealand to Explore this Unique Country for a couple of months.

If you’re considering a move to New Zealand, here are 11 reasons why you should move Here:

The cost of living is affordable. Housing, food, and transportation costs are significantly lower in New Zealand than in other major cities worldwide. This means you can live comfortably on a monthly budget of $1,640 – $6,200 (NZD 2,590 – NZD 9,750) Per Month.
The affordable cost of living In New Zealand, With a monthly income from $3000 to $4000, it is possible to live for even as low as $1640, which we will discuss later in this article. Still, we don’t recommend that because it is stressful. The monthly food budget, housing expenses, and transportation options in New Zealand are determined by your budget and spending habits, depending on how much you spend.
The cost of living in New Zealand is $1,640 – $6,200 (NZD 2,590 – NZD 9,750) Per Month, which is much lower than in many other popular destinations worldwide.
Are you considering a change of scenery and a new adventure? If so, you should definitely consider moving to New Zealand. With its breathtaking natural beauty, rich culture, and high quality of life, New Zealand is one of the best places to live in the world. In this article, we’ll explore the top reasons why you should move to New Zealand.
Stunning Natural Beauty: One of the first things that come to mind when you think of New Zealand is its breathtaking natural beauty. From towering mountain ranges to pristine beaches, New Zealand offers a diverse range of landscapes that will take your breath away. Whether you’re a fan of hiking, skiing, or just taking in the scenery, you’ll find that New Zealand has something to offer everyone.
High Quality of Life: Another great reason to move to New Zealand is its high quality of life. With a low crime rate, clean air and water, and a strong sense of community, New Zealand is a safe and welcoming place to call home. The country is also known for its excellent health care system and low cost of living, making it an attractive option for those looking to escape the high cost of living in other countries.
Rich Culture: New Zealand is also home to a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Maori, Pacific Islander, and European influences. The country is famous for its cultural events and festivals, including the Auckland Arts Festival and the New Zealand International Arts Festival. Whether you’re into music, dance, or theater, you’ll find that there’s always something to enjoy in New Zealand.
Outdoor Activities: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love the many opportunities for adventure that New Zealand has to offer. From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and kayaking in the summer, you’ll find that there’s always something new to try. The country is also home to a number of world-class golf courses, making it a great destination for golfers.
Growing Economy: New Zealand’s economy is growing and thriving. With a low unemployment rate, a strong tourism industry, and a thriving tech sector, there are plenty of job opportunities for those who move to New Zealand. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, you’ll find that there’s a place for you in New Zealand’s thriving economy.
Cost of Living in New Zealand: New Zealand’s cost of living is relatively affordable compared to other developed countries, and the cost of living can vary depending on where you live and what you want to do. The average cost of living in New Zealand ranges from NZD 2,500 to NZD 4,800 per month, including rent, utilities, food, transportation, and health insurance expenses. You can expect to spend between NZD 75 and NZD 150 per month on gym membership, and between NZD 50 and NZD 300 on transportation, depending on your lifestyle and location.
Nature: New Zealand is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, and its scenery is a major draw for tourists and residents alike. The country is known for its stunning mountain ranges, glaciers, fiords, and lakes, and its beautiful beaches are perfect for swimming, surfing, and fishing. With its lush forests, rolling hills, and pristine waters, New Zealand is a nature lover’s paradise, and it’s easy to see why so many people choose to call this beautiful country home.

Cost Of Living in New Zealand Quick Facts:

Here are some quick facts about the cost of living in New Zealand:

Here’s a breakdown of some key expenses: Total Monthly Living Costs in New Zealand, Is $1,640 – $6,200 (NZD 2,590 – NZD 9,750) Per Month. For all expenses, and if you budget smartly, you can expect to spend $2000 to $4000 per month for all expenses.
New Zealand, is 2 times cheaper than New York City, United States.
Living well in New Zealand is possible with a monthly income of around $3000. Living on as low as $1700 per month on a strict tight budget is possible.
The monthly rent, food budget, housing expenses, and transportation options in New Zealand are determined by your budget.
To maintain the same standard of life as $10,000 in New York City, an estimated $5,300 (8,300 NZD) is needed in New Zealand.
On average, the cost of living in New Zealand, is 37% lower than in New York City, United States.
On average, rent in New Zealand is 37% cheaper than in New York City, New York, USA.
The costs of rent in New Zealand range from $1,640 – $6,200 (NZD 2,590 – NZD 9,750) Per Month. Depending on your budget.
A budget food and grocery plan in New Zealand will cost around $250 – $905 per month, depending on location and budget.
An estimated monthly cost for a family of four in New Zealand is $3700.
An estimated monthly cost for a single person in New Zealand is $1800 – $3000.
Transportation costs in New Zealand are estimated to be $55 – $522 per month.
The average monthly cost of living in New Zealand for local natives is around $2800. Expats and digital nomads may spend more, $3000 – $4000 per month, to maintain their living standards in New Zealand. We spent around $1690 – $3200 or NZD 2500 – NZD 4800 monthly on all expenses.

More Quick Facts on the Cost of living in New Zealand:

Housing and accommodation in New Zealand: $1250 – $5360 USD for a one-bedroom apartment and luxury apartment in the city center.
Food and groceries: $250 – $900 per month
Transportation: $50.15 – $510 USD depending on the mode of transport used.
Utilities: $157.2 – $308 USD for a one-bedroom apartment’s average monthly cost of utilities (including electricity, gas, and water).
Activities and leisure: $54 – $254 per month
Overall, the cost of living in New Zealand, is relatively affordable for $1,640 – $6,200 (NZD 2,590 – NZD 9,750) Per Month.

Our Personal Costs of Living in New Zealand: Table of expenses Breakdown 2023

This Is a table of expenses of what we spent living as digital nomads every month in New Zealand. Sometimes, we spent less or more.

Our Average Monthly Costs In New Zealand, went as follows:

Our monthly cost of rent and accommodation in New Zealand ranges from $1000 – $1500 or NZD 1200 – NZD 2200.
Our monthly cost of utilities, including water, electricity, Internet, etc., ranges from $100 – $200 or NZD 150 – NZD 300.
Our gym cost per month in New Zealand ranges from $50 – $100 or NZD 75 – NZD 150.
Our monthly cost of food and groceries in New Zealand ranges from $400 – $700 or NZD 600 – NZD 1000.
Our monthly cost of transportation in New Zealand ranges from $50 – $300 or NZD 79 – NZD 450.
Our monthly cost of activities and things to do in New Zealand ranges from $50 – $200 or NZD 79 – NZD 300.
Our monthly cost of health insurance ranges from $40 – $200 or NZD 600 – NZD 300.
Our monthly cost of living in New Zealand, including all of the above expenses, ranges from $1690 – $3200 or NZD 2500 – NZD 4800.

Here is a table of Expenses for what we personally spent in New Zealand:

Our Monthly Cost of Living In New Zealand	Cost (USD)	Cost (NZD)
Our Monthly Cost of Rent and Accommodation in New Zealand	$1000 – $1500	NZD 1200 – NZD 2200
Our Monthly Cost of Utilities (water, electricity, Internet, etc)	$100 – $200	NZD 150 – NZD 300
Our Gym Cost per month in New Zealand	$50 – $100	NZD 75 – NZD 150
Our Monthly Cost of Food and Groceries in New Zealand	$400 – $700	NZD 600 – NZD 1000
Our Monthly Cost of Transportation in New Zealand	$50 – $300	NZD 79 – NZD 450
Our Monthly Cost of Activities and things to do in New Zealand	$50 – $200	NZD 79 – NZD 300
Our Monthly Cost of Health Insurance	$40 – $200	NZD 600 – NZD 300
Our Monthly Cost of living in New Zealand total expenses	$1690 – $3200	NZD 2500 – NZD 4800

Estimated Monthly Cost of Living in New Zealand Summary Cost Of Rent, Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare: $1,640 – $6,200 (NZD 2,590 – NZD 9,750) Per Month

You can live in New Zealand, for around $1,640 a month for all expenses on a tight budget or $6,200 a month if you want to live much more luxuriously. $1,640 – $6,200 (NZD 2,590 – NZD 9,750) Per Month.

You can still maintain a monthly budget and enjoy all the beautiful things New Zealand, offers.

An amazing tool to use is this Cost of living Calculator from the New Zealand Government Here

Here is a breakdown of the costs:

Renting a studio apartment typically costs between $800 and $1,500 in the United States, or between NZD 1,200 and NZD 2,200 in New Zealand.
For a one-bedroom apartment, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 in the United States or NZD 1,600 to NZD 2,500 in New Zealand.
Renting a two-bedroom apartment costs between $1,500 and $2,500 in the United States, or between NZD 2,000 and NZD 3,000 in New Zealand.
For a three-bedroom apartment, you may spend anywhere from $2,000 to $4,000 in the United States, or between NZD 2,500 and NZD 5,000 in New Zealand.
Utility expenses, including electricity and water, average between $100 and $200 in the United States, or between NZD 150 and NZD 300 in New Zealand.
To get a mobile phone with an unlimited data plan and a sim card, you might expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $100 in the United States, or NZD 75 to NZD 150 in New Zealand.
Internet service, such as a Wi-Fi connection, usually costs between $50 and $100 in the United States, or NZD 75 and NZD 150 in New Zealand.
Your food expenses will depend on your lifestyle, but can range from $300 to $700 in the United States, or from NZD 470 to NZD 1,000 in New Zealand, taking into account groceries, dining out, partying, and nightlife.
Transportation costs will vary widely, but could range anywhere from $50 to $700 in the United States, or from NZD 79 to NZD 1,000 in New Zealand, depending on whether you take trains, metros, Ubers, scooters, or own a car.
Healthy activities, such as gym memberships, martial arts classes, yoga, or massages, can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 in the United States or NZD 79 to NZD 300 in New Zealand.
Finally, to be insured for health emergencies, you might pay anywhere from $40 to $200 in the United States, or from NZD 60 to NZD 300 in New Zealand for providers such as SafetyWing or World Nomads.
You can expect your monthly expenses for The Cost of living in New Zealand to range from $1,640 to $6,200 in the United States, or from (NZD 2,590 to NZD 9,750).

A great monthly budget for a single person living in New Zealand, is around $3000 to $4000 monthly. You can also do it for cheaper.

The costs of living in New Zealand, Depending on various factors and spending habits, the price may change. Others spend $6000 or more each month for an extravagant, next-level lifestyle or even $1700 on the strictest budget staying in hostels, couchsurfing, and smaller studio apartments, ensuring they make it work no matter what!

Expect to spend $1,640 – $6,200 (NZD 2,590 – NZD 9,750) Per Month. for a single person or a family living in New Zealand. $2500 per Month is sufficient to live on.
Local New Zealand markets, food shops, and supermarkets are the most cost-effective and knowledgeable ways to shop and eat in New Zealand!

Here is a table of expenses for a couple living in New Zealand per month:

Average Cost of Living In New Zealand	Cost in USD	Cost in NZD
Rent (Studio apartment)	$800 – $1,500	NZD 1,200 – NZD 2,200
Rent (1 bedroom apartment)	$1,000 – $2,000	NZD 1,600 – NZD 2,500
Rent (2 bedroom apartment)	$1,500 – $2,500	NZD 2,000 – NZD 3,000
Rent (3 bedroom apartment)	$2,000 – $4,000	NZD 2,500 – NZD 5,000
Utilities (electricity, water)	$100 – $200	NZD 150 – NZD 300
Mobile phone (unlimited data plan, Sim Card)	$50 – $100	NZD 75 – NZD 150
Internet (wifi)	$50 – $100	NZD 75 – NZD 150
Food (groceries, dining out, Partying, nightlife)	$300 – $700	NZD 470 – NZD 1000
Transportation (train, metro, Uber, Scooter, car)	$50 – $700	NZD 79 – NZD 1000
Healthy activities (gym, martial arts, yoga, massages)	$50 – $200	NZD 790 – NZD 300
Health insurance (SafetyWing, World Nomads)	$40 – $200	NZD 60 – NZD 300
Cost of Living In New Zealand Per Month Total Expenses	$1,640 – $6,200	NZD 2,590 – NZD 9,750

Cost of Living in New Zealand: Table of Expenses in 2023

This table of expenses will help you plan your budget for your move to New Zealand.

The Cost of living table below An extensive poll of Digital Nomads, Expats, travelers, our personal experience living Here, Locals, and Numbeo users were used to put this together.

$1 USD equals 1.5 NZD as of the posting of this article. This estimate is based on a Strict Budget Vs. A luxury Budget in New Zealand per Month! The Cost Of Living Per Month In New Zealand, is $1,640 – $6,200 (NZD 2,590 – NZD 9,750) Per Month or more, depending on your spending habits!

Here is the Table of the monthly budget for two people living in New Zealand:

Cost of Living in New Zealand per person	Cost in USD	Cost in NZD
Cost of living for a single person in New Zealand	$1600 – $3500	NZD 2000 – NZD 5000
Cost of living for a couple in New Zealand	$2000 – $5000	NZD 3000 – NZD 7000
Cost of living for a family of four in New Zealand	$3000 – $6200	NZD 5000 – NZD 11000

Average Monthly Expenses in New Zealand	Cost in USD	Cost in NZD
Average monthly rent for a studio in New Zealand	$1,000 – $2,000	NZD 1,500 – NZD 2,550
Average monthly cost for food and groceries in New Zealand	$300 – $700	NZD 450 – NZD 950
Average monthly cost for dining out in New Zealand	$200 – $300	NZD 300 – NZD 450
Average monthly cost for miscellaneous items	$200 – $300	NZD 300 – NZD 450
Average monthly cost for utilities	$150 – $200	NZD 225 – NZD 300
Average monthly cost for transportation	$50 – $150	NZD 79 – NZD 225
Total average monthly cost of living in New Zealand	$1,900 – $3,650	NZD 3,075 – NZD 4,825

Cost of Living in New Zealand Expenses	Cost (Monthly) in USD	Cost (Monthly) in NZD
Cost of Rent and Accommodation in New Zealand	1,000 – 3,000	1,500 – 4,750
Cost of Food and Groceries in New Zealand	300 – 800	475- 1,200
Cost of Utilities in New Zealand	100 – 400	150 – 600
Cost of Public Transportation in New Zealand	50 – 200	790 – 300
Cost of Private Transportation	500 – 1,000	750 – 1,500
Cost of Healthcare	100 – 300	150 – 450
Cost of Entertainment	50 – 300	79 – 450
Cost of Clothing and Personal Items	100 – 500	150 – 750
Cost of Activities and Excursions	50 – 800	79 – 1,200

Cost of Rent In New Zealand In-Depth Summary And Table of Expenses

Cost of rent and accommodation in New Zealand

The cost of accommodation in New Zealand is essential for many expats, retirees, digital nomads, and locals. It can vary depending on the type of apartment or room you are looking for.

The cost of studio and one-bedroom apartments in New Zealand:

The average cost of a studio apartment in the city of New Zealand is between $1,200 and $2,000, or between NZD 1,800 and NZD 3,100
The average cost of a studio apartment outside the city is between $1,000 and $1,500, or between NZD 1,500 and NZD 2,300
The average cost of a 1 bedroom apartment in the city is between $1,400 and $2,500, or between NZD 2,200 and NZD 3,900
The average cost of a 1 bedroom apartment outside the city is between $1,200 and $2,000, or between NZD 1,800 and NZD 3,100.

Cost of a Apartment in New Zealand	Location	Average Cost per Month (USD)	Average Cost per Month (NZD)
Cost of a Studio in the city of New Zealand	City	$1,200 – $2,000	NZD 1,800 – NZD 3,100
Cost of a Studio outside the city in New Zealand	Outside City	$1,000 – $1,500	NZD 1,500 – NZD 2,300
Cost of a 1 bedroom in the city in New Zealand	City	$1,400 – $2,500	NZD 2,200 – NZD 3,900
Cost of a 1 bedroom outside the city in New Zealand	Outside City	$1,200 – $2,000	NZD 1,800 – NZD 3,100

The Cost of 2 Bedroom Apartment in New Zealand:

The average cost per month for a 2 bedroom apartment in the city of New Zealand is between USD 1,825 and USD 3,800, or between NZD 3,000 and NZD 6,000.
The average cost per month for a 2 bedroom apartment outside the city of New Zealand is between USD 1,800 and USD 3,200, or between NZD 2,800 and NZD 5,000.

Cost of a 2 bedroom Apartment in New Zealand	Location	Average Cost per Month (USD)	Average Cost per Month (NZD)
Cost of a 2 bedroom in the city in New Zealand	City	$1,825 – $3,800	$3,000 – $6,000
Cost of a 2 bedroom outside the city in New Zealand	Outside City	$1,800 – $3,200	$2,800 – $5,000

The Cost of a 3 bedroom apartment in New Zealand:

The cost of a 3-bedroom apartment in New Zealand varies depending on its location.
On average, the cost per month for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city is between USD 2,500 and USD 3,500, or between NZD 3,500 and NZD 4,800.
Meanwhile, for a 3-bedroom apartment outside the city, the average cost per month is between USD 1,900 and USD 3,500, or between NZD 3,000 and NZD 4,800.

Cost of a 3 bedroom Apartment in New Zealand	Location	Average Cost per Month (USD)	Average Cost per Month (NZD)
Cost of a 3 bedroom in the city	City	2,500 – 3,500	3,500 – 4,800
Cost of a 3 bedroom outside the city	Outside City	1,900 – 3,500	3,000 – 4,800

The Cost of a Luxury Apartment in New Zealand per month:

Cost of a Luxury Apartment in New Zealand:
Cost of a luxury apartment in the City: The average cost per Month in USD is $4,000 – $10,000, and the average cost per Month in NZD is NZD 6,200 – NZD 15,500.
Cost of a luxury apartment Outside the city City: The average cost per Month in USD is $3,000 – $10,000, and the average cost per Month in NZD is NZD 4,700 – NZD 15,500.

Cost of a Luxury Apartment in New Zealand	Location	Average Cost per Month (USD)	Average Cost per Month (NZD)
Cost of a Luxury apartment in the city of New Zealand	City	4,000 – 10,000	6,200 – 15,500
Cost of a Luxury apartment outside the city of New Zealand	Outside City	3,000 – 10,000	4,700 – 15,500

Suppose you’re considering renting an apartment in New Zealand. In that case, your best bet is to opt for a monthly rental in person, via Facebook Marketplace, Real estate New Zealand rental site, Booking.com, and Airbnb.

While an apartment on Airbnb average costs ranges from $1040 to $4,200 per month, you may find a cheaper option by searching locally. However, remember that you may need to pay a deposit upfront when renting an apartment locally. At the same time, Airbnb rentals usually do not require a deposit. I recommend Facebook marketplace and finding local renting sites in New Zealand.

To save money on your rental and daily expenses, consider looking for an apartment located in a neighborhood with access to local markets, gyms, and restaurants and short walking distances.
You can also join Facebook groups such as “Digital Nomads in New Zealand” or “Expats in New Zealand” to connect with others and potentially find affordable rental options.
Alternatively, consider staying at a Hostel, Airbnb, hotel monthly, homestay, guesthouse, or bed and breakfast for more affordable rates rather than a costly hotel or tourist location.

Monthly Rent in New Zealand: Table of Expenses in 2023

Here is a table of expenses for the Cost of rent and Accommodation in New Zealand per month:

Cost of rent in New Zealand	Average Cost per Month (USD)	Average Cost per Month (NZD)
Studio apartment	1,000 – 2,000	1,500 – 2,700
2+ bedroom apartment	1,800 – 4,000	2,430 – 6,050
Insane luxury apartment	5,000 – 8,000	6,700 – 10,800

Average Monthly Rent Expense in New Zealand	Average Monthly Rent in USD	Average Monthly Rent in NZD
Average monthly rent for a studio in New Zealand	$1,000 – $2,000	NZD 1,500 – NZD 3,000
Average monthly rent for a 1 bedroom in New Zealand	$1,200 – $3,000	NZD 2,200 – NZD 4,500
Average monthly rent for a 2 bedrooms in New Zealand	$1,900 – $4,000	NZD 3,000 – NZD 6,000
Average monthly rent for a 3 bedrooms in New Zealand	$2,300 – $5,000	NZD 3,800 – NZD 7,500

Here is a table of estimated costs for rent and accommodation in New Zealand:

Accommodation Type in New Zealand	Average Monthly Rent in USD	Average Monthly Rent in NZD
1 bedroom apartment in city center	$1,200 – $2,500	$1,900 – $3,500
1 bedroom apartment outside city center	$1,000 – $2,000	$1,600 – $3,100
Studio apartment in city center	$1,000 – $2,800	$1,600 – $4,400
Studio apartment outside city center	$800 – $2,500	$1,300 – $3,500
Shared room in city center	$800 – $1,200	$1,300 – $1,900
Shared room outside city center	$700 – $1,000	$1,100 – $1,500
Hotel room (3-star)	$100 – $200	$150 – $260
Hotel room (5-star)	$300 – $500	$470 – $750
2 bedroom apartment in city center	$2,000 – $4,000	$3,100 – $6,200
2 bedroom apartment outside city center	$1,800 – $3,500	$2,600 – $5,500
3 bedroom apartment in city center	$3,000 – $6,000	$4,600 – $9,500
3 bedroom apartment outside city center	$2,500 – $5,000	$3,900 – $7,900

Living in New Zealand Credible Reliable Sources

Here is a list of Government resources for Visas, Cost of living in New Zealand, Tourism Boards, and more to help you with your potential move here! i hope this helps you all as you plan your move here!

An amazing tool to use is this tool from the New Zealand Government that helps you Calculate what you may need for your move here and what costs you will incur Cost of living Calculator from the New Zealand Government
Here is one of the sites that is great for finding a place to stay in Auckland and throughout New Zealand Real estate New Zealand rental site.
here is another site that is great for finding jobs, Properties like renting an apartment and homes for sale, cars and more from Trade Me New Zealand
New Zealand Government Tourism Site: New Zealand Government Tourism Board
Official New Zealand Tourism Board: New Zealand Tourism Board
For Visa and Entry Requirements Check here on New Zealands Official Site for visas and tourism

Cost Of Transportation In New Zealand Summary and Table of expenses

The average cost a traveler spends a day on transportation while in New Zealand, is $5 to $30 a day USD or $50 – $1000 per month depending on if you use transport by trains, ferries, have your own scooter, or rent a car.

Here are different methods of public transport you can do in New Zealand:

Bus (local): The cost of a local bus ride in New Zealand ranges from $5 to $20 or NZD 7 to NZD 30.
Bus (long-distance): The cost of a long-distance bus ride in New Zealand ranges from $50 to $100 or NZD 70 to NZD 140.
Taxi (city): The cost of a city taxi ride in New Zealand ranges from $10 to $30 or NZD 15 to NZD 40.
taxi (long-distance): The cost of a long-distance taxi ride in New Zealand ranges from $100 to $200 or NZD 140 to NZD 280.
rental car (compact): The cost of renting a compact car in New Zealand ranges from $30 to $50 or NZD 40 to NZD 70.
rental car (luxury): The cost of renting a luxury car in New Zealand ranges from $100 to $200 or NZD 140 to NZD 280.
train (local): The cost of a local train ride in New Zealand ranges from $5 to $20 or NZD 14 to NZD 28.
train (long-distance): The cost of a long-distance train ride in New Zealand ranges from $50 to $100 or NZD 70 to NZD 140.
bicycle: The cost of a bicycle in New Zealand ranges from $5 to $50 or NZD 7 to NZD 70.
scooter: The cost of a scooter in New Zealand ranges from $10 to $70 or NZD 15 to NZD 100.
ferry (inter-island): The cost of an inter-island ferry ride in New Zealand ranges from $10 to $100 or NZD 15 to NZD 140.
helicopter (tour): The cost of a helicopter tour in New Zealand ranges from $200 to $500 or NZD 280 to NZD 700.

Here is a detailed table of estimated costs for public transportation in New Zealand:

Transportation Option	Average Cost in USD	Average Cost in NZD
Bus (Local)	$5 – $20	NZD 7 – NZD 30
Bus (Long-Distance)	$50 – $100	NZD 70 – NZD 140
Taxi (City)	$10 – $30	NZD 15 – NZD 40
Taxi (Long-Distance)	$100 – $200	NZD 140 – NZD 280
Rental Car (Compact)	$30 – $50	NZD 40 – NZD 70
Rental Car (Luxury)	$100 – $200	NZD 140 – NZD 280
Train (Local)	$5 – $20	NZD 14 – NZD 28
Train (Long-Distance)	$50 – $100	NZD 70 – NZD 140
Bicycle	$5 – $50	NZD 7 – NZD 70
Scooter	$10 – $70	NZD 15 – NZD 100
Ferry (Inter-Island)	$10 – $100	NZD 15 – NZD 140
Helicopter (Tour)	$200 – $500	NZD 280 – NZD 700

Monthly Cost Of Gas and Petrol For Scooter in New Zealand	Cost in USD	Cost in NZD
Average monthly cost for gasoline, Petrol for scooter	$20 – $100	30- 150

Ultimately, we recommend renting a Car, or scooter, using the Trains, Ferries, and Uber. This will give you the best experience, and you can explore New Zealand this way.

Cost of Food and Markets In New Zealand Explained: Table Of Expenses 2023

The average cost of food per day in New Zealand is about $10 to $30 per day or $250 to $905 per month.

Another great option is to shop at the local markets for affordable fresh food and cook meals at home.

But if you eat at local food stalls and supermarkets around your area, you’re looking to spend only around $300 or more on food per Month.

The average monthly cost of food in New Zealand is as follows:

The average monthly cost of local food in New Zealand is between USD 5 and 20 per meal, or between NZD 7 and 30 per meal.
The average monthly cost of a meal in a mid-range restaurant in New Zealand is between USD 20 and 40, or between NZD 28 and 55 per meal.
The average monthly cost of a meal in a fine dining restaurant in New Zealand is between USD 50 and 100, or between NZD 70 and 140 per meal.
The average monthly cost of groceries in New Zealand is between USD 150 and 400, or between NZD 210 and 620 per month.
The average monthly cost of imported goods in New Zealand supermarkets is between USD 10 and 50 per item, or between NZD 14 and 70 per item.
The average monthly cost of street food in New Zealand is between USD 5 and 10 per item, or between NZD 7 and 14 per item.
The average monthly cost of specialty food stores in New Zealand is between USD 10 and 50 per item, or between NZD 14 and 70 per item.
The overall average monthly cost of food in New Zealand is estimated to be between USD 300 and 800 per month, or between NZD 420 and 1120 per month.

Overall, the cost of food in New Zealand can vary greatly depending on the type of food you eat and where you purchase it. Local food and street food are the most affordable options, while mid-range restaurants and groceries can be more expensive. We recommend shopping at the local supermarkets in New Zealand.

Here is a table of expenses for the Cost of Food in New Zealand per month.

Food Expense	Average Monthly Cost (USD)	Average Monthly Cost (NZD)
Local food	$5 – $20 per meal	NZD 7 – NZD 30 per meal
Mid-range restaurants	$20 – $40 per meal	NZD 28 – NZD 55 per meal
Fine dining restaurants	$50 – $100 per meal	NZD 70 – NZD 140 per meal
Groceries	$150 – $400 per month	NZD 210 – NZD 620 per month
Supermarkets (imported goods)	$10 – $50 per item	NZD 14 – NZD 70 per item
Street food	$5 – $10 per item	NZD 7 – NZD 14 per item
Specialty food stores	$10 – $50 per item	NZD 14 – NZD 70 per item
Overall Monthly Cost of Food in New Zealand	$300 – $800 per month	NZD 420 – NZD 1120 per month

Average Monthly Food Costs in New Zealand	USD	NZD
Local Food Markets, Street food and Local Supermarkets and cheaper dining options	$250 – $600	NZD 350 – NZD 900
Eating out at Mid range restaurants and expensive restaurants per month (No Budget)	$450 – $1000	NZD 600 – NZD 1500

Here is an example table of expenses for the average monthly food and grocery costs in New Zealand:

Monthly Food Expenses in New Zealand	USD $	NZD
Average monthly cost for groceries	$200 – $450	NZD 280 – NZD 630
Average monthly cost for dining out	$50 – $150	NZD 70 – NZD 210
Average monthly cost for miscellaneous food items	$50 – $100	NZD 70 – NZD 140
Total average monthly cost for food in New Zealand	$300 – $700	NZD 420 – NZD 1100

Here is a table of estimated costs for food in supermarkets in New Zealand:

Food Items in New Zealand Supermarket	Estimated Cost (USD)	Estimated Cost (NZD)
Milk (1 liter)	$2.5 – $4.5	3.5 – 6 NZD
Bread (500g loaf)	$2.5 – $3.5	3 – 5 NZD
Rice (1kg)	$4 – $7	5.5 – 9.5 NZD
Chicken (1kg)	$9 – $15	12 – 20 NZD
Apples (1kg)	$4 – $5	5 – 6.5 NZD
Oranges (1kg)	$3 – $5	4 – 6.5 NZD
Eggs (1 dozen)	$4 – $5	5 – 6.5 NZD
Cheese (1kg)	$15 – $20	20 – 27 NZD
Beef (1kg)	$20 – $30	27 – 40 NZD
Potatoes (1kg)	$2 – $3	2.5 – 4 NZD
Tomatoes (1kg)	$3 – $4	4 – 5.5 NZD
Onion (1kg)	$2 – $3	2.5 – 4 NZD
Water (1.5 liter bottle)	$1.5 – $2	2 – 2.5 NZD
Soft drink (1.5 liter bottle)	$2 – $3	2.5 – 4 NZD
Beer (330ml bottle)	$3 – $4	4 – 5 NZD
Wine (mid-range bottle)	$15 – $20	20 – 25 NZD
Fast food meal	$8 – $12	10 – 16 NZD
Restaurant meal (mid-range)	$20 – $30	27 – 40 NZD

Here is a table of some popular local food in New Zealand:

Food Item	Estimated Cost (USD)	Estimated Cost (NZD)
Fish and Chips	8-15	10-20
Pavlova	8-12	10-15
Meat Pie	5-10	6-12
Roast Lamb	20-30	25-40
Māori Hangi	20-30	25-40
New Zealand Ice Cream	5-8	6-10
New Zealand Cheese	15-25	20-30
New Zealand Wine	20-50	25-60
New Zealand Beer	4-8	6-10
Seafood Platter	30-50	40-60

Cost of Utilities in New Zealand: Table of Expenses 2023

The cost of utilities in New Zealand can vary significantly depending on the location and the individual’s energy consumption habits:

The estimated monthly cost of basic electricity and gas in New Zealand is between USD 100 and 200, or between NZD 130 and 260.
The estimated monthly cost of water in New Zealand is between USD 50 and 100, or between NZD 65 and 130.
The estimated monthly cost of the internet (broadband) in New Zealand is between USD 60 and 100, or between NZD 78 and 130 from spark and Vodafone.
The estimated monthly cost of a prepaid mobile phone sim card for travelers in New Zealand is between USD 30 and 50, or between NZD 40 and 65.
The estimated monthly cost of a postpaid mobile phone plan in New Zealand is between USD 50 and 100, or between NZD 65 and 130.
The estimated monthly cost of a mobile phone plan with unlimited data in New Zealand is between USD 50 and 120 or NZD 79 and 190.
The total average monthly cost for utilities in New Zealand is estimated to be between USD 110 and 300, or between 170 and 470 NZD.

Here is an example table of expenses for the average monthly utilities in New Zealand:

Monthly Cost of Utilities & Services in New Zealand	Estimated Monthly Cost (USD)	Estimated Monthly Cost (NZD)
Basic electricity/gas	$100 – $200	NZD 130 – 260
Water	$50 – $100	NZD 65 – 130
Internet (Broadband)	$60 – $100	NZD 78 – 130
Mobile phone sim card (Prepaid)	$30 – $50	NZD 40 – 65
Mobile phone plan (Postpaid)	$50 – $100	NZD 65 – 130
Mobile phone plan (Unlimited data)	$50 – $120	NZD 79 – 190
Total average monthly cost for utilities in New Zealand	$110 – $300	170 – 470 NZD

Leisure, Activities and Things to do in New Zealand

New Zealand is a beautiful country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It is known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

From the stunning fjords of Milford Sound to the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, New Zealand has something for everyone.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and water sports, or experience the country’s rich cultural heritage through its Maori culture and history.

Here are the 20 things to do in New Zealand:

Train MMA at City Kickboxing in Auckland
Visit Milford Sound for a scenic cruise or hike
Explore the geothermal activity in Rotorua
Walk the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Visit Hobbiton Movie Set from “The Lord of the Rings” films
Hike in Abel Tasman National Park
Take a scenic drive on the West Coast
Visit the picturesque town of Queenstown
Experience Maori culture and history at a cultural village
Visit the Sky Tower in Auckland
Explore the stunning beaches in the Coromandel Peninsula
Go bungy jumping in Queenstown
Visit the War Memorial Museum in Auckland
Drive the Southern Alps on the Alpine Pacific Triangle
Go skiing or snowboarding in the Southern Alps
Explore the historic mining town of Arrowtown
Visit the Waitomo Caves to see the famous glow worms
Take a scenic flight over Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Visit Wellington
Visit Christchurch

For more things to do In New Zealand Checkout Viator Here for 1000s of activities and guided tours!

Healthcare Costs in New Zealand

Medical Tourism is massive in New Zealand and extremely world class quality.

We recommend The best travel health Insurance available by SafetyWing We always have travel insurance monthly for international trips and living abroad. It covers any health or medical procedure done.

We suggest you also have it, especially if you live as an expat and digital nomad in New Zealand. We always use SafetyWing for international travel insurance and medical concerns. They start at $42 a month! It’s incredible and always reliable!

Click To Visit SafetyWing!

Cost of Taxes in New Zealand by Percentage

Here is in-depth information for the cost of Taxes in New Zealand for each type of Tax and make sure to contact a local New Zealand Tax Professional for more Information:

Individual Income Tax in New Zealand

Tax Type: Individual Income Tax
Tax Rate: 10.5% – 33%
Important Information:
- Progressive tax rates from 10.5% to 33% based on income.
- Taxable income over NZD $70,000 taxed at 30%.
- No capital gains tax but some investment income taxed.

Goods and Services Tax (GST) in New Zealand

Tax Type: Goods and Services Tax (GST)
Tax Rate: 15%
Important Information:
- Broad-based 15% tax applied to most goods and services.
- Virtually all transactions have GST added.
- Few exemptions like rent, financial services.

Corporate Tax in New Zealand

Tax Type: Corporate Tax
Tax Rate: 28%
Important Information:
- Base corporate tax rate of 28% for most companies.
- Lower 10.5% rate for small businesses up to $60k.
- No state or local corporate taxes.

Property Tax in New Zealand

Tax Type: Property Tax
Tax Rate: Varies
Important Information:
- Local councils charge annual property tax based on property value.
- Average about 0.2% but ranges from 0.1% to 0.4%.
- Funds local government services.

Customs Duty in New Zealand

Tax Type: Customs Duty
Tax Rate: 0% – 10%
Important Information:
- Levied on imported goods into New Zealand.
- Most imports are duty free under FTAs.
- Duties still apply on shoes, apparel, etc.

Table of Tax Rates in New Zealand

Tax Type in New Zealand	Tax Rate in New Zealand
Individual Income Tax	10.5% – 33%
Goods and Services Tax (GST)	15%
Corporate Tax	28%
Property Tax	Varies, approx. 0.2%
Customs Duty	0% – 10%

Main FAQS Section About New Zealand:

What is the monthly cost of living in New Zealand?

The cost of living in New Zealand on average, is around $1,640 – $6,200 (NZD 2,590 – NZD 9,750) Per Month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and other costs like utilities and phone bills.

What is the Cost Of Living in New Zealand Vs the USA?

The Cost Of Living in New Zealand is around 37% less than living in New York City, USA, and the average monthly Cost of living in New Zealand is $1,640 – $6,200 (NZD 2,590 – NZD 9,750) Per Month. in New Zealand vs $5500 to $8370 per month living in New York City, United States.

What is the Cost of Accommodation in New Zealand?

The Cost of Accommodation in New Zealand costs around $800 to $4200 per month.

What is the best time of year to visit New Zealand?

The best time to visit New Zealand is from November to March the peak Summer season.

How Much does it cost to live in New Zealand?

On average, living in New Zealand costs around $1,640 – $6,200 (NZD 2,590 – NZD 9,750) Per Month.

What is the Cost of Utilities in New Zealand?

The Utilities in New Zealand Cost around $105 to $300 per month, depending on your energy consumption!

What is the Cost of Food in New Zealand vs the USA?

The Cost Of Food in New Zealand is 15% less than in New York, United States. Monthly Food Costs in New Zealand is from $250 to $875 per month.

What is the Cost Of Rent in New Zealand VS USA?

The Cost of Rent in New Zealand is 37% less Than in New York, United States A 1 bedroom apartment in New Zealand costs $870 to $3000 per month on average, and 1 bedroom Apartment in New York City, United States, Costs over $2880 per month.

What is the Food Expenses In New Zealand?

The Food expenses in New Zealand is from $250 to $875 per month. Make sure to eat the local Food to save money.

What is the Rental Expenses In New Zealand?

The monthly rent for a 1-bedroom in New Zealand is from $1200 to $2550.

What is the Expenses for a Single Person in New Zealand?

The Expenses for a Single Person in New Zealand is from $1,640 – $6,200 (NZD 2,590 – NZD 9,750) Per Month for all expenses.

What is the average cost of Rent In New Zealand?

The Average cost of rent in New Zealand is around $1000 to $3000 Per Month in New Zealand.

What is the average Cost of Transportation In New Zealand?

The average cost of transportation in New Zealand is about $5 – $20 USD per day or $50 to $500 per month Depending if you use a train, or a personal car.

What is the Cost of Mobile Phone SIM and Internet Data In New Zealand?

The Cost of Phone Data and internet from in New Zealand is around $45 to $120 per month with Spark and Vodafone.

What is the Cost of Food in New Zealand?

The Cost of Food in New Zealand costs around $250 to $875 per month; try to eat at the local restaurants and street food for the best and cheapest food to stay on budget!

Is New Zealand a good place to live?

Yes, New Zealand is a great and safe country. it is also one of the safest countries in the world to Live, but of course you always need to watch what you are doing and keep safety top of mind as you would anywhere in the world.

What is the average salary in New Zealand?

The average monthly salary in New Zealand is around $6120 per month.

What is a good salary to live in New Zealand?

A great Salary to live on in New Zealand is around $4000 per month. This will cover all expenses.

Cost Of Living in New Zealand Conclusion

We hope that you have found this blog post helpful! We have summarized the cost of living in New Zealand, and provided a table of expenses, information on rent, accommodation, food costs, and more from our time living there! We will be continually updating this blog post! Also, below are many excellent travel resources that will help you in your Journey around the world!

Travel Resources and Reliable Sources For New Zealand

Booking Flights: To score insane flight deals, search on Google Flights, Skyscanner. Money-saving tips: fly in the middle of the week, on the weekend; fly carry-on only on a budget airline, and take red-eyes or early morning flights.
Tours, tour packages, activities and booking private drivers: We love booking guided tours, especially food and walking tours, to get a local’s perspective and a history lesson while sight-seeing! We reserve our tours using Viator, and GetYourGuide for professional service.
Accommodations: We usually stay in budget-friendly vacation rentals, boutique hotels, or private hostel rooms. We use Booking.com to book hotels (we love their flexible cancellation policy) and Hostelworld to book hostels (low deposit, easy change/cancellation, and excellent reviews). We use Airbnb monthly for weekly or monthly rentals, where you can get an entire villa for a monthly fee in for under $400 a month! You can also book vacation rentals on Expedia USA, Expedia UK, Hotels.com, and Vrbo, like Airbnb.
Travel Insurance: We always have travel insurance monthly for international trips and living abroad. We STRONGLY suggest that you have it as well, just in case other digital nomads live abroad, and we always use SafetyWing for international travel insurance and medical concerns. SafetyWing is one of the few policies covering Covid-19, and they start at $42 a month! It’s incredible and always reliable! SafetyWing is perfect for Digital Nomads and long-term travelers!
Travel Credit Cards
Vaccines & Meds: We use the travel guides on the CDC website to research recommended medications and vaccines for international trips. You can get them at your primary care doctor’s office or a walk-in pharmacy.
Transportation: We use GetTransfer, and the local Uber-type apps in different countries. Usually, that is GrabGrab.
VPN Service: A VPN keeps your digital information (like website login details, bank info, etc.) safe, even when you’re connected to an unsecured network while traveling. Plus, it lets you use Netflix & other streaming sites abroad! We use NordVPN!
New Zealand Government Tourism Site: New Zealand Government Tourism Board
Official New Zealand Tourism Board: New Zealand Tourism Board

If you want to keep up with our travels, go ahead and follow us on our travel page on Instagram @onelifepassport! Comment below what else you would like to know/see about our experiences traveling the world! Also, check out our YouTube Channel!

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Austin Pierce

About the Author: I Became A Digital Nomad in 2018 after working soul-crushing jobs in Tennessee, United States. I figured out how to make money online, and I bought a one-way ticket to Thailand in 2018, and we never looked back; I have been traveling the world with my girlfriend, Salina. We Run a YouTube Channel and this Blog; We write about the Digital Nomad Lifestyle, The Places we live, and How to Make Money Online. I am also an MMA and Muay Thai Fighter, and I am really into Fitness!

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