Moving out

• if you choose to not move out, think about living costs such as paying rent and bills.
• having enough money for emergencies and new expenses.
• if you’re working part-time while you study, make sure your income is enough to cover your expenses.
• if you're studying at a university or Te Pūkenga then halls of residence might seem more expensive on a weekly basis. However, the cost will include food, heating and internet.

• living closer to where you work or study can reduce your transport spend.
• you might also want to think about how far you’d be from whānau and friends who you’re used to having as your support network.
• think about transport costs, including car registration, Warrant of Fitness (WOF), and servicing if you own a car.

• know what chores you’ll be expected to do, like cooking and cleaning.
• think about how much time and when you’ll be studying, at work or socialising.
• think about whether you’ll have to take care of others in your whānau.

• have someone help look through any documents you need to sign.
• know who you can talk to if you’re overwhelmed or stressed about moving.
• ask someone in your whānau who has done this before for advice.
• if you have a disability, looking into the support that’s available where you’ll be living working or studying. The Whaikaha (Ministry of Disabled People) website outlines support and services that can be accessed in New Zealand.

There are different flatting options throughout Aotearoa. Make sure you “shop around” online before making a decision. Think about:

• Finances 
  • know how much the bond and weekly rent is. 
  • how bills will be paid and divided. 
  • additional expenses, such as cleaning. 
  • how much notice you’ll need to give if you move out and if breaking this agreement will lead to extra costs. 
  • your tenancy status, such as whose name the tenancy agreement is in. 

• What’s included in the lease, such as ... 
  • furniture and appliances. 
  • lawn mowing or gardening services. 
  • internet access and a fibre Broadband connection. 
  • available parking. 

• Behaviour expectations 
  • if you have a pet, make sure they are allowed on the property. 
  • the number of people you’ll live with and if you’ll suit each other's living style, such as having lots of parties. 
  • expectations for other responsibilities like paying rent and electricity bills. 

You may see tertiary accommodation options at some universities and polytechnics. They are usually located closer to where you study which can be convenient. This information will usually be available on their websites, and you can contact them to see what your options are and how to apply for them.

Private boarding can be an option if you have to leave home but don’t feel ready to be fully independent. If you are moving to a different area, you may find a room, sleep-out or granny flat to rent.

Some areas have privately-run hostels for longer-term accommodation. These can be a cheaper option while you make longer-term arrangements, are doing a short course, or are travelling for a short time. Most hostels have shared cooking and recreation areas. Bathrooms and bedrooms are usually communal depending on the cost.

If you require support to live independently or have special requirements for accommodation, such as needing wheelchair access, you may choose a specially designed facility. Make contact with your local health providers as early as possible, as applications and assessment of needs can take months to process. You may also be eligible for financial support to help with any changes to your living situation.