Off-campus accommodation for AUT students

AUT's on-campus accommodation options in Auckland, New Zealand – Te Āhuru Mayoral Drive Student Accommodation (at the City Campus) and Akoranga Student Village (at the North Campus) – are a strong choice. You get 24/7 support, a built-in community and AUT's campus right on your doorstep.

If you're looking for off-campus accommodation while studying at AUT, you'll find useful information here to help you find somewhere safe and suitable. AUT doesn't endorse any of these options, but we want to make sure you land somewhere good.

Renting in Auckland

Renting a room, apartment or house in Auckland means signing a tenancy agreement. Before you sign anything, make sure your rights and obligations are clearly set out. Your agreement must include:

• The landlord or agent details
• The tenant details
• The rent amount and frequency of payment (weekly or fortnightly) – in most cases your rent will have to be paid in advance for the coming week or fortnight
• The bond amount (a bond is a set amount you're paying as a warranty in case you default on rent or cause damage to the property)*
• The day the tenancy comes into effect and the day it ends if it’s a fixed-term agreement
• The required notice period for each party to end the tenancy
• Whether your rent includes utilities (water, electricity, internet access, landline etc) – always ask to see the utility bill you're asked to pay. Sometimes your rent includes utilities and the amount is revised once your landlord receives the utility bill
• Other terms like the frequency of property inspections, whether pets are allowed or the maximum number of occupants
• Your landlord can only increase rent once every 12 months and must give at least 60 days' notice

_{*Your landlord must transfer your bond to Tenancy Services. It will be paid back when your tenancy ends, unless it has been used to cover unpaid expenses. Your bond must not exceed 4 weeks rent.}

Safe practices when looking for rental accommodation

If you’re planning to rent, keep yourself protected:

• Check the property yourself – walk around the neighbourhood, go at different times of the day, ask questions and check the property management company's website to make sure you’re dealing with the right person
• If you feel unsure about anything, talk to someone or seek advice from:
  • Student Hub
  • Tenancy Services
  • Citizens Advice Bureau
• Never pay money into an overseas account. Even if the owner lives overseas, they would use a New Zealand property management agency to collect rent
• Avoid paying in cash – organise for funds to go directly from your account to the property management company or landlord. If you do pay in cash, get a receipt immediately

Long-term rental options in Auckland

These websites are popular options in New Zealand:

• TradeMe
• One Roof

If you're studying at the North or South Campus, or want to rent with family, a real estate agent may be better placed to help you find something in the outer suburbs. Only use a reputable real estate agency registered with the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ). These agents are bound by the REINZ Codes of Practice. If the agent isn't a member of REINZ, don't use them.

Short-term rental options in Auckland

Finding suitable long-term accommodation can be difficult. If you're not from Auckland, we suggest booking a short-term option first, for up to 2 to 4 weeks, so that you have housing on arrival. That way your study plans are sorted and you have time to find the right place.

Finding short-term accommodation if you're new to Auckland

• Airbnb
• booking.com

Backpackers and hostels

Backpackers and hostels are suitable accommodation for travellers but they're not recommended as a long-term solution for students. However, it may be the only option available when you need something in a hurry. Most backpackers offer dormitory-style living.

• Backpacker Board
• Hostel World
• Auckland Backpackers

Homestay accommodation options in Auckland

Living with an Auckland family can be a great way to settle into life in New Zealand, especially if you're new to the country or not an experienced traveller. International students under the age of 18 who aren't living with their parents (or a designated caregiver) should be living in a homestay.

Host Families NZ carries out house inspections and police vetting for everyone in the household over 18 years of age. This a private organisation – contact them directly to apply. Book early as this service is popular.

Flatting in Auckland

Sharing a house or apartment is one of the great student experiences – good for your budget and a solid way to meet people and feel at home in Auckland. Just go in with your eyes open. Meet your potential flatmates before you commit and get clear on shared expenses (rent, bond, utility bills, repairs, cleaning products, appliances and food) and expected behaviour upfront.

There's an important legal distinction too. If your name isn't on the tenancy agreement, you're a flatmate, not a tenant. Tenants are jointly responsible for all rent and any damage. As a flatmate your responsibilities are to the person or people whose name is on the agreement.

The Residential Tenancies Act 1986, which protects tenants' rights, doesn't apply to flatmates. A written flatting agreement is a good idea to avoid disputes.

Moving in

Almost there. Before you settle in, tick these off:

• Update your address with your bank, IRD, your local council, the electoral roll, your doctor, your dentist and NZ Post
• Figure out public transport routes from your new home to the important places — university, GP, dentist, supermarkets
• Set up automatic payments for rent and utilities

Need to furnish the place? Buying second-hand is cheaper and better for the planet.