Ready to Go to New Zealand
Cost of Living
The New Zealand unit of currency is the New Zealand dollar, which we abbreviate as NZ$. Exchange rates can fluctuate on a daily basis. To check today's rate, visit an exchange rate currency calculator. The prices listed below are provided to help you estimate expenses, though may vary slightly according to city. You may wish to also visit the Planning a Budget page for further information.
Special note: The New Zealand Government has a tax called the GST (Goods and Services Tax). The GST is a 12.5% tax on all goods and services (food, consumables, transportation and utilities). This is included in all of the prices below.
Everyday Items
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Airmail Postage (US)
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NZ$ 1.50 for postcard,
NZ$ 2.00 for letter
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Daily Newspaper
|
NZ$ .80
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Haircut
|
NZ$ 15 - 60
|
Cinema
|
NZ$ 15
|
Concert Tickets
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NZ$ 25+ (this is with a student discount)
|
Sports Event
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NZ$ 15+
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Hairdryer
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NZ$ 30-40
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Curling Iron
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NZ$ 30-40
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Batteries
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NZ$ 7.50 for 4 AA batteries,
NZ$ 5.75 for 2 C batteries
|
Notebooks
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NZ$ 6
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Ballpoint pens
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NZ$ .85-2.00
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Paperback Books
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NZ$ 25
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Single sheets (pair)
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NZ$ 15
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Comforter
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NZ$ 25-30
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Pillow
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NZ$ 15
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Meals in Restaurants
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Fine Restaurant
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NZ$ 40+
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Modest Restaurant
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NZ$ 15+
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Fast Food
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NZ$ 5+
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University Refectory
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NZ$ 5+
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Groceries
Fruits and Vegetables are per kilo or =2 lbs. |
Apples
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NZ$ 2.50
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Bananas
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NZ$ 2.50
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Oranges
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NZ$ 4
|
Grapes
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NZ$ 7
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Lettuce
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NZ$ 2.00/head
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Tomatoes
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NZ$ 5
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Potatoes
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NZ$ 3.00
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Bread
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NZ$ 2.00 per loaf
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Eggs
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NZ$ 3.50 per dozen
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Chicken - whole
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NZ$ 12
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Cookies
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NZ$ 2
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Candy Bar
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NZ$ 1
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Gum
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NZ$ .60
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Can of Soda
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NZ$ 1-1.50
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Toothpaste
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NZ$ 3
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Toothbrush
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NZ$ 4
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275 Facial Tissues
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NZ$ 1.50
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375 ml Shampoo
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NZ$ 3.95
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