Is it expensive to live in New Zealand?

The cost of living is a very important topic to keep in mind.
Is it expensive to live in NZ?...

When people ask this question my answer is always: Compared to what country?
NZ prices are pretty much standard to those of 1st world countries, however from my point of view rent can be cheaper than in Australia, or US or Europe.

Most important New Zealand presents you with a life standard that balances with work load.
If your aim is to come to NZ to work and make lots of money, I can honestly tell you it won't happen.

Average salaries are modest compared to other coutries, however if you keep your income steady you can easily make a living and most important ENJOY IT.

As a seasonal worker you could earn (depending on the activity, let's say picking apples) an average of NZ$500 in hand after tax. THere are workers that are very good and fast, so it is not strange to see people earning NZ$1,000 + a week
Once again this type of work is seasonal,hence it pays to work when there is a chance !

Please find attached a link to the Immigration Department page which talks about the cost of living:

http://www.immigration.govt.nz/nzopportunities/lifestyle/costofliving/

Some of the prices you can find around average the following chart:

http://www.immigration.govt.nz/nzopportunities/lifestyle/costofliving/

Apples 1kg = 2.87
Beer Local (12 pack 330ml) = 21.15
Big Mac Burger = 4.45
Bread (Sliced White 700g) = 3.79
Butter (500g) = 4.99
Carrots 1kg  = 1.99
Cheese (500g) = 6.99
Chocolate Block (340g) = 5.00
Coffee (Instant 100g) = 4.99
Ground Beef (Prime 1kg) = 12.99
Ice Cream (2 L) = 5.48
Milk (1 L) = 2.33
Movie Theatre Pass (Adult) = 15.00
Newspaper = 2.20
Pasta (Spaghetti Dry) = 2.18
Petrol (1 L Unleaded) = 2.00
Sugar (1.5 kg) = 2.48
Toilet Paper (4 pack) = 3.50
Toothbrush = 4.99

For Seasonal Workers we have a blog on Facebook, which you can accesss from: backpackersblog.co.nz

Alternatively you can CONTACT US using our main site.

By registering with us you will be able to:

* Plan your trip around New Zealand, indicating the regions of New Zealand where you want to work and visit.

* Include your skills and specify if you need accommodation. Several of our registered seasonal employers can provide you with accommodation.

* Contact seasonal employers and apply for seasonal jobs available in different regions of New Zealand: fruit picking jobs, fruit packing jobs, viticulture jobs, you name it!

* Contact accommodation providers (Hostels & Backpackers) to request their services.

Bookmark our blog as we will update it with seasonal work news frequently.

Regards,

Eduardo Perez
pickapicker.co.nz

The No.1 link between Seasonal Workers and New Zealand's Horticultural Industry.