Australia or New Zealand? Which is the best option for studying abroad?
We present you with relevant information so that you can decide which of these options suits you best.
Part of the fun of preparing to study abroad is deciding where you want to go. There is an overwhelming amount of options and information, but if you know you want to study in the Southern Hemisphere, but you want to be in an English-speaking country, you will have to choose between studying in Australia or New Zealand.
Both are among the top destinations for students from around the world. That’s why the final decision will ultimately depend on what you are looking for in your global experience.
For some, it’s the lure of wild, natural landscapes. Others seek beautiful beaches close to cosmopolitan cafes in the heart of a bustling city.
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Not sure which is the best choice? Don’t worry. We’re here to help you decide which of the countries is calling your name.
1. Cost of living in Australia vs New Zealand
Living on either island is unfortunately more expensive, as most things have to be imported. But fear not.
There are plenty of cheap activities, scholarship programs, and tricks to make either destination more affordable.
Sydney consistently features on lists of the most expensive cities in the world. Melbourne, the Austrian capital, also ranks high on the list of expensive places to live in Australia.
However, like in many other cities, there are free and affordable things to do in your free time while studying abroad.
The Australian government suggests that students studying abroad for a full year bring $18,000 (USD) to cover minimum living expenses.
This amount excludes tuition, fees, and return flights; in other words, it is the estimated minimum necessary to cover rent, transportation within the city, food, daily expenses, and a little money for leisure activities and fun with the new friends you will undoubtedly make during your time studying. Basically, $18,000 will do you good if you are a big saver.
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Comparing this figure to the cost of studying in New Zealand, New Zealand is slightly less expensive. Some websites estimate the cost of one year in New Zealand for an international student at $13,000 (USD).
New Zealand Immigration advises students to have $15,000 (USD; $13,000 for living expenses and $2,000 for flights or emergency tickets).
The cost of living and studying in New Zealand is lower than in Australian cities, making it a bit more affordable for those on particularly tight budgets.
2. Education systems in Australia and New Zealand
New Zealanders are known for their incredible hospitality. There is a clear sense of community on the small island, and people tend to look out for each other.
This translates into the classroom atmosphere, which tends to be casual. So much so that students often attend class barefoot.
Australian universities are larger and cater to a larger number of students. The learning environments on these campuses are hugely multicultural.
Although Australia also offers its students a relaxed atmosphere, it is not so casual that you should forget about your shoes.
Australia’s urban institutions make studying less classroom-focused and more city-focused.
Study breaks between classes can be spent in city cafes or lounging in the botanical gardens across the street from the skyscrapers.
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These two countries are also home to many elite schools, where you can enjoy a competent and complete study experience.
Some of the ones that stand out for their academic excellence and that we can recommend are:
- Study Northern Territory (Australia)
- Charles Darwin University (Australia)
- University of Canberra (Australia)
- Australian National University (Australia)
- University of Technology (Australia)
- University of Canterbury (New Zealand)
- Waikato University (New Zealand)
- University of Otago (New Zealand)
3.Travel opportunities in New Zealand vs Australia
It is very common for international students to rent camper vans and travel during vacations and holidays while living their study abroad experience in either country.
Those who want to see as much of a country as possible will need to adjust their budget and flights accordingly.
Students looking to travel around Australia should keep in mind its size. Australia is 29 times the size of New Zealand. A country this large requires more time, more money and more planning to cover in its entirety.
However, the rewards are spectacular views, pristine beaches and dreamlike natural landscapes.
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New Zealand is much smaller, meaning you’ll have a better chance of seeing more of the country as a whole in less time.
However, most people are surprised to learn that flying to New Zealand’s South Island from the North Island usually costs more than flying to Australia.
4. Climate and weather in New Zealand vs Australia
New Zealand is generally much greener and more mountainous than Australia. Its famous glaciers are examples of picturesque landscapes that people travel around the world to see first-hand. It has a maritime climate, meaning its weather is mostly affected by ocean conditions.
Australia’s continental climate makes its weather more self-regulating. It is warmer than New Zealand, with an average summer temperature of 30°C.
In New Zealand, the average summer temperature ranges between 20 and 25°C. In the higher altitude regions of New Zealand it snows regularly, while in its neighbouring country it only snows in the high mountains.
Bottom line: Australia is hot and dry, while New Zealand is humid and lush.
5. Student visa
In New Zealand, the visa costs NZD 430 and in Australia, AUD 710. However, they differ in the number of hours that can be worked with this visa: while in New Zealand you can work 20 hours/week while the course you are taking lasts (variable during holidays), in Australia, you can work 24 hours a week or 48 hours a fortnight, and 40 hours during school holidays.
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On the other hand, if you plan to extend your study trip until you get a residence, you may be interested in the fact that, compared to Australia, in New Zealand it is much easier to get one after studying.
6. Minimum wage
In New Zealand, the minimum wage is NZD 22.70 per hour of work from 1 April 2023. In neighbouring New Zealand, the minimum wage is AU$23.23 per hour of work.
7. Other important data
- What currency do they use?: New Zealand dollar and Australian dollar respectively.
- Area: 268,021 km² (NZ) vs 7,741,220 km² (AUS).
- Number of inhabitants: 4.7 million (NZ) vs 25 million (AUS).
If you haven’t decided yet, perhaps knowing a little more about the study programs that each of these destinations has for you can help you choose the perfect country for you:
5 Reasons to Study in Melbourne, Australia.
