Why live in University of Auckland Accommodation?

• You can live in University of Auckland Accommodation for your entire degree – whether you study with us for three years or more – undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
• First-year residents in University Accommodation statistically perform better than non-residents, 3% with a higher pass rate and 20% with higher ‘A’ grades.
• We offer a wide range of Accommodation scholarship opportunities to help you with your cost of living.
• Living in our Accommodation will often cost you less than trying to set up your own flat in the  Auckland CBD or Parnell, or even at some other universities around the country. Really, it’s true!

For the 2025 academic year, Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland is committed to offering on-campus housing for over 4,500 students across our City and Grafton campuses. Our diverse range of accommodation options includes both catered and self-catered choices, providing a convenient and immersive campus experience.  

Our accommodation fees cover not only rent, but also a comprehensive package of utilities and resources. This includes power, heating/cooling, laundry facilities, cleaning services for common areas, and membership to Hiwa, the University’s recreation centre. Residents also benefit from access to the University’s WiFi network. Additionally, our Halls of Residence feature two academic mentoring programs, a variety of student-focused events, Inter-Residential activities, and round-the-clock security and pastoral care.  

The increase in our 2026 Accommodation fees reflects increased costs for catering services, staff salaries (including minimum and living wage adjustments), and enhanced pastoral care initiatives. Despite this increase, our housing remains competitively priced compared to other New Zealand universities and private rentals in the Auckland CBD and Parnell areas.   

The University of Auckland offers quality accommodation in the heart of Auckland City, at comparable prices to other New Zealand universities – making Auckland an affordable option. 

How much will it cost? 

Below is a comparison of catered accommodation at universities in Auckland, Dunedin, Wellington, and Christchurch, using published (2025) costs which shows that the University of Auckland has very competitive rates: 

• University of Auckland: $21,395 - $23,735
• University of Otago: $21,008 - $25,632
• Victoria University of Wellington: $19,720 - $23,542
• University of Canterbury: $20,011 - $30,649

* At the University of Auckland, our Accommodation fee includes electricity, water, food, on-site laundry, and membership to the University’s gym. Residents are also given access to the University WiFi. 

Accommodation scholarships 

The University offers a range of scholarships opportunities, including scholarships with a dedicated Accommodation component. Whether you’re starting in Semester One or Two, there are scholarships available to Māori and Pacific students, high achiever and those with Academic Potentional who are active members of their community.

Our University-managed, self-catered accommodation offers you a more independent lifestyle just steps away from the University, at rates comparable to the cost of living in private accommodation in Auckland. You'll also benefit from engaging residential events, 24/7 management team, pastoral care and support from a range of University services. 

How much will it cost? 

Below is a comparison of self-catered accommodation in Auckland, and a room in a shared private house in Auckland, using estimated (2026) weekly living costs.

Note: the stories below are fictional student personas, so we can share with you the different types of experiences you might have as a student in Auckland. These people aren’t real, but the numbers are! 

*Cost of living calculations based on Tenancy NZ.
**Food and groceries calculations based on IRD Household Expenditure Guide.

***Based on travel to campus five days per week within AT Transport Zone 1 with student concession.

At the University of Auckland, our Accommodation fees include rent plus:

• A fully-furnished room
• Utilities
• A communal lounge, dining room and kitchen
• Games room and music room
• On-site laundry (washer & dryer)
• Security, on-site support staff, and front desk reception
• Gym membership, and
• Events programme

Living in Accommodation is a convenient solutions for students who want to focus on their academic and social lives. When you move in, all you have to bring is yourself and your suitcase! In our fully-furnished rooms and flats, we provide residents with an engaging calendar of events and support to better integrate into University support systems. 

So whether you just don't want to deal with a long commute or want support in making new friends, we've got you covered! 

Live with us on-campus and don't stress about the details.