The cost of living in New Zealand's most populous city is high. This includes the price of the accommodation. For this reason, the most common is that young people decide to live in shared flats since living with roommates makes the monthly rent more affordable.
Advantages and disadvantages of sharing a flat in Auckland
Here are some pros and cons of living in shared flats in this New Zealand city:
Advantages of sharing a flat in Auckland
- Take advantage of the extra savings in your budget to enjoy everything the country has to offer. Travel around the island and explore its cities and nature as much as you can! You will be surprised by the lakes, beaches, mountains and other abundant vegetation.
- If you are lucky enough to have a "Kiwi" (as New Zealanders are called) as one of your housemates, you are sure to meet a friendly and warm person who will make you feel at home quickly.
Disadvantages of flat sharing in Auckland
- Usually, the rentals are made for short periods (between 3 and 6 months). If your stay is longer, you may have to move if your contract is not renewed.
- Finding accommodation with good features and a good price can be complicated, especially if you search at the last minute.
Apps for your international exchange programme in Auckland
If you want to access relevant information about the exchange in this New Zealand city, the best thing you can do is download some available apps. In them, you will find instructions on the procedures to be done, useful information about the city and advice from other young people who have already been there. One of the recommendations is that you should purchase the AT HOP transportation card, this allows you to use the public transportation system (trains, ferries, and buses) at cheaper rates than if you purchase single tickets separately.
How to meet people in Auckland?
Befriend your roommates when you arrive in the city. Surely they will be one of the closest people in your exchange. In addition, you can consider one of the following alternatives to meet people in New Zealand city:
Student associations in Auckland
There are several clubs and societies in Auckland's universities where you get the opportunity to meet other young people who have similar interests to you or who play the same sports. In fact, at the University of Auckland, there are over 250 of these organizations!
Facebook groups for international students in Auckland
In these groups, you can find out about different events and activities that are planned throughout the year, in which you will be able to meet other young people. Some groups you can join are “ISAA - International Students' Association of Auckland” and “International Students in Auckland - INTL HUB”.
Whatsapp groups for international students in Auckland
Both students on their own, societies and Facebook groups often create groups on messaging services to be in more direct contact. If you join WhatsApp groups, you will be able to meet other students, join their plans and suggest your own.
Tips for sharing a student flat in Auckland
Here are some tips for you to consider when living in a shared flat:
- Keep in mind that seismic activity on the island is constant. This does not entail major problems, but, conveniently, you know it in advance, so you do not get scared if you feel that the apartment moves frequently.
- You can't leave New Zealand without seeing a rugby game! This sport is an intrinsic part of the local culture. Take the opportunity to go see a game with your friends and flatmates, they will indeed have a great time and get to know part of the New Zealand lifestyle.
- The climate in Auckland does not usually have extreme temperatures in any season. This allows you to make the most of the outdoors during your stay.
