Top 5 New Zealand Cities Students Love

If you’re an international student looking for a place that offers world-class education and an incredible lifestyle, the beautiful island nation of New Zealand could be the answer.

With universities consistently ranking in the global top 500, New Zealand offers a quality education that is more affordable than most Western countries. What really sets Kiwi universities apart is their practical approach to learning. You’ll be learning to solve real-world problems, not just provided with theoretical knowledge.

International students from around the globe often mention the warm welcome they receive in New Zealand. The relaxed Kiwi lifestyle, beautiful nature, and friendly multicultural communities make living in New Zealand a joyful experience. A quality education will prepare you for numerous post-study work opportunities. Not to mention, the safe environment for you and your family. It’s no wonder student satisfaction rates are quite high.

We’ve selected the top 5 cities in New Zealand for students based on what matters most to you: affordability, quality of education, student facilities, lifestyle options, and safety. Let’s find out which cities performed the best on the above metrics.

Auckland

Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand’s where one-third of the total population lives. This city offers a unique combo of a big-city energy entangled with a laid-back Kiwi lifestyle.

Being home to the well-recognised University of Auckland (ranked 65th in the QS World University Rankings 2025) and the innovation-focused Auckland University of Technology (AUT), you’ll find yourself surrounded by academic excellence. These quality institutions attract the best of domestic and international students that make Auckland a truly global learning city.

Auckland is famous for its lively lifestyle. From cultural festivals celebrating the city’s diverse communities to weekend markets and live music venues, there’s always something happening. Auckland is the biggest job centre and tech centre in New Zealand. This means chances of getting an internship or part-time work are quite high and your CV will look more desirable to future employers.

Auckland is more expensive than other Kiwi cities. A room in the city costs between NZD 260 and NZD 370 per week for a shared flat. But many students find the lifestyle benefits worth the extra dollars. There is also an option for university-owned residence halls and flats.

You’ll be spoilt for choices when it comes to recreational activities in Auckland. Visit gorgeous beaches just 30 minutes from the city centre (like Takapuna Beach or Milford Beach), hiking trails through the volcanic cones of Mount Eden, and island getaways in the Hauraki Gulf.

Don’t forget to visit Britomart, Ponsonby, and Viaduct Harbour that are famous for nightlife. Auckland offers a perfect balance of urban excitement and natural beauty that students love.

Wellington

New Zealand’s capital city is compact, quirky and gives some serious creative vibes. At the heart of Wellington’s academic scene is the Victoria University of Wellington (ranked 244th in the QS World University Rankings 2025). It is known for its strong programs in law, humanities, and creative arts. Wellington’s position as the political and cultural capital creates a unique intellectual atmosphere that spills into university life.

Wellington’s nickname as the “coolest little capital” is well-deserved. The city is famous for its artistic vibe. Here you’ll find cultural festivals, museums, art galleries, the Kiwi film industry (Miramar), and many world-class bars and restaurants. Coffee culture is strong in Wellington and you can easily find yourself studying in some of the best cafés in the Southern Hemisphere.

One of the biggest advantages of living in Wellington is walkability. Most student flats are within walking distance of both the university and the city centre, saving you a lot on transportation. Accommodation is generally more affordable than in Auckland, with weekly rent for a room between NZD 180 and NZD 300 for shared flats.

The famous Wellington wind might blow you around occasionally, but the unbelievable harbour views, artistic soul, and intellectual energy make up for it! For creative thinkers and future policymakers, Wellington offers an inspiring study environment unlike anywhere else in New Zealand.

Christchurch

The largest city in the South Island, Christchurch offers a chance to students to be part of a city that is actively reinventing itself. Following the earthquakes of 2010-2011, the city has transformed itself into one of New Zealand’s most forward-thinking and innovative urban centres.

The University of Canterbury (ranked 261st in the QS World University Rankings 2025) is renowned for courses in geography, civil & structural engineering, and linguistics, while Lincoln University excels in agriculture and forestry studies. Both institutions have embraced the city’s rebuilding spirit and offer modern facilities and practical learning opportunities that connect students with real-world projects.

What makes Christchurch particularly attractive to students is its affordability. You’ll find quality student flats at significantly lower prices than Auckland or Wellington. Weekly rents typically range from NZD $180 to NZD $250 for a room in a shared accommodation. Your dollar simply stretches further here!

Christchurch is one of the best student cities in the world and has a community-focused perspective. Emerging industries in tech, sustainable design, and healthcare offer excellent internship and graduate prospects.

Nature lovers will feel right at home with beautiful parks throughout the city. The stunning Banks Peninsula is a short drive away, and there is easy access to the Southern Alps for weekend ski trips (Mt. Hutt and Porters). In Christchurch, you’ll feel like a part of an exciting city-wide journey of growth and innovation.

Dunedin

Located deep in the South Island, Dunedin is New Zealand’s ultimate student town. Students make up about 20% of Dunedin’s population!

Founded in 1869, the University of Otago is New Zealand’s oldest university and gives Dunedin its distinct academic charm. It is the second-highest-ranked university in New Zealand (ranked 214th in the QS World University Rankings 2025). The impressive stone buildings here are often compared to universities in Scotland (no surprise given the city’s Scottish heritage).

Dunedin’s compact size makes it easier to visit its must-see attractions. The famous Baldwin Street (the world’s steepest street) hosts the annual Jaffa race, while events like the Dunedin Craft Beer and Food Festival, and the O-Week celebrations (organised by the University of Otago) keep the social calendar packed. The city’s compact size means everything is within walking distance. You can easily walk from your lectures to the best student pubs and cafés in the city.

Dunedin is also quite affordable. The weekly cost of a room in a shared flat is approximately NZD 200. It costs a little bit more in the university-owned accommodation.

Winters can be chilly in Dunedin. When you are here, don’t forget to visit the beautiful beaches, wildlife reserves, and rugged Otago Peninsula. For those who are looking for an authentic, immersive student experience, Dunedin is hard to beat.

Hamilton

Often overlooked by international students, Hamilton is New Zealand’s hidden gem that’s quickly rising as an education hotspot. Hamilton offers a perfect balance of urban conveniences and rural charm.

The University of Waikato (ranked 235th in the QS World University Rankings 2025) is Hamilton’s crown jewel, particularly renowned for business & economics and social sciences. What sets the University of Waikato apart is its focus on practical research and strong connections with local industries giving students valuable real-world experience before they graduate.

The student population in Hamilton has created a vibrant café scene, regular cultural events, and a growing number of international food options. The city’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the North Island. You can plan weekend trips to Hobbiton (yes, the actual Lord of the Rings set!), glowworm caves, and riveting beaches.

One of Hamilton’s biggest draws is affordability. A room in a shared flat usually costs between NZD 160 to NZD 260 per week, and the overall cost of living is notably lower than in Auckland or Wellington. This means more money in your pocket for weekend adventures!

For students looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger cities without sacrificing educational quality, Hamilton could be a good option.

From Auckland’s bustling urban scene to Dunedin’s historic student community, New Zealand offers a city to match every student’s dream study experience. Each city brings its own unique flavour to your educational journey while sharing that famous Kiwi welcome. Studying in New Zealand not only offers a world-class education but also a lifestyle that will allow you to enjoy life to the fullest. So, start preparing for the adventure of a lifetime today!