Arriving Soon

Cost of Living

The cost of living in New Zealand is comparable to what you'll find in any OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) country. Use Study in New Zealand's cost of living advice to compare prices and the New Zealand Government's Sorted budgeting tool to work out a detailed budget.

Mobile Phones 

We understand how important it is to stay connected with friends and family. UCOL provides international students free SIM cards so you can get a New Zealand phone number. 

Doctors

In New Zealand, registering for a doctor (general practitioner or GP) is free and easy. 

For medical attention after 5pm and on weekends, there are after-hours medical centres and services available to all students across New Zealand.

If you have medical questions or concerns while in New Zealand, you can call Healthline on 0800 611 116. Healthline is a free 24-hour telephone health advice service funded by the government's Ministry of Health. This service is operated by registered nurses who will assess a person's condition and health needs, and recommend the best course of action to be taken. They can also provide general health information and location of services. 

For all emergencies, call 111. 

Banking

You should bring only a small amount of cash to New Zealand. If possible, you should set up a New Zealand bank account before leaving your country so that you can make credit card and cash withdrawals as soon as you arrive. 

If this isn't possible, UCOL's International Support Staff can assist you with bank arrangements soon after you arrive. 

International Student Discounts

UCOL international students receive many community and retail benefits. Here's a few of our key sponsors:

• Steve Parsons Travel - Travel agent
  
• Office Max - Stationery and computer supplies
  
• 2 Degrees  - Mobile phone and Internet provider
  
  

Keeping Safe

In the 2017 Global Peace Index Report, which compares 162 countries for the risk of personal violence, New Zealand was ranked as the world's 2nd safest country. Regardless, international students must take necessary precautions to keep safe. You can read some helpful tips in the New Zealand Police's Guide to Keeping Safe (available in several languages) and water safety in New Zealand.

In the event of an emergency, please call the following numbers:

• Fire/Police/Ambulance - phone 111
• UCOL's 24-hour International Student Support Emergency number – phone 021-242 7625

Legal Rights
Police in New Zealand do not routinely carry guns, and are friendly and helpful. Anyone who is arrested will be permitted to speak to a lawyer. If you want to know more about your legal rights in New Zealand make sure to ask at your Orientation.

Transport

UCOL offers a free airport pickup service from Palmerston North and Whanganui Airports. 

In Palmerston North, you can ride the inner-city buses for free, using your UCOL identification card.

UCOL provides free bus transport between our Manawatū and Whanganui campuses for students and staff.

New Zealand's national public transport system includes buses, ferries and trains. Students planning a tour throughout New Zealand can obtain special student travel passes. Discount fares are also available for plane travel if booked early. Read more on Immigration New Zealand's or New Zealand Tourism's website. 

Driver's license
Students must know the New Zealand Road Rules before driving in New Zealand. In general, you can drive using your overseas driver's license for up to 12 months, but after this time you must convert your license to a New Zealand Driver's License. Read more about the rules and regulations from the New Zealand Transport Agency.

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