Anyone is studying in New zealand now or studied in NZ before?
Is it a beautiful place?
Is it a safety place to study?
How much is the living expenses per annum?
Is it easy to find a job there?( part time and full time)


Come on,Just share your experience HERE!!
You can talk whatever you want about New Zealand.
If you never study there, and thinking of studying there like me, you can ask any questions you want to know.

Looking forward to hearing from those who have experience or informations.
Thank you.

1. Currently doing Masters in NZ, University of Auckland. Bachelors from University of Otago.

2. Yes, but that depends of where you are. NZ is really very beautiful, some parts more than others (eg Queenstown), but generally you have to get out of the cities first. I've always thought that it's a pity there isn't a uni in Queenstown - would be the world's most beautiful uni if there is. South Island more beautiful than North Island.
Note that I use the term 'city' losely cos what the Kiwis call 'city' sould only qualify as a small town somewhere else.

3. Yes, quite safe. People are still quite honest and violent crime is rare.... though it's growing. But like anywhere else in the world, you need to be careful - lock your doors, don't leave valuable stuff lying around, don't walk in dark alleys by yourself etc.

4. Varies between places (Auckland the most expensive) and the type of lifestyle you want but you should budget around NZ$12,000 to be safe.

5. Part-time: shouldn't be much of a problem. The unis have a service called Student Job Search which helps students find part-time jobs. Minimum wage is around $10, minus 19% tax. Tax here is high and EVERY dollar is taxed, even interest from your savings account. International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during term time.

Full-time: Depends on whether you mean summer job or 'real' graduate job. Summer job should be quite easy, just use SJS to look. If you're good/lucky, you might get a summer internships. Those pay quite well. International students can work full-time during the summer break.

Graduate job: Not too hard provided you have a decent CV - work experience (any job, doesn't have to be relevant, Kiwis have a part-time work culture), extra-curriculars, and decent grades. Most of my friends managed to find jobs relatively easily.... just need some time and patience.

NZ graduates are granted a 6 month work visa on application. This can be extended to a full work permit once you find a full-time job related to your degree. Makes it easier to find job cos employers don't have to worry about work permit applications. Once you get a job, getting a PR is an easy next step.
NZ PR is better than Australian cos it's indefinate - once you've stayed there under PR for 2 years, you can leave anytime you want and never come back. Almost as good as citizenship. Not like Aus where you have to stay for 2 out of 5 years to keep it. They might change their immigration laws in the future though.

6. Other basic info: NZ is a country of 4 million people and has a landmass is the size of Great Britian. Wellington is the capital, Auckland is the largest city. The native people are the Maori. The Maori name for NZ is Aoteroa - the Land of the Long White Cloud. Asian population is about 7%, congregrated mostly in Auckland.

There are 8 unis - University of Auckland, University of Otago, University of Canterbury, Victoria University of Wellington, Massey University, University of Waikato, Lincoln University and Auckland University of Technology. The first 4 are considered the better, more established ones. A couple of the others have their own specialist fields. All are public universities. Some Malaysian private colleges twin with NZ unis - Inti with Otago, and I dunno who with Vic and Lincoln.
There are also polytechnics, many of which have degree-granting powers in specific fields. Not sure if there is any twinning.

This is a rugby-mad country. If you like other sports, you're going to suffer deprivation.

Any course/uni in particular that you're looking at?

Ex-NZ'er here, so I'll just say what I experienced:

1) Beautiful? Thats a understatement. The place is amazing. Fresh air, green grass, cheap milk, plentiful honey. And thats just North Island. The rolling hills are amazing (through a pain to walk if youre in Auckland), the whole place is very laid back and peaceful. I miss the place sometimes...

2)By and large, NZ is a "saftey" place to study. Peaceful, people are usually nice and friendly. Sure, there is crime as any other place, but by and large, its safe. A "high" death toll over the weekend is 2 people dead! One tip: for those in Auckland, the south side (Manukau, Otara) isnt the best place to be. IMO, it should be avoided if possible.

3)Allocate $200/wk to live for the bare minimum. Note that heating costs in NZ can make up a significant part of your bills. Winters are freezing to say the least.

4)While there is Student Job Search in most uni's, as a international student finding jobs will be hard (they prefer PR's and citizens). As a Asian, you;ll have to fight a bit. In anycase, never expect working part-time to cover more than 40% of your expences.

Welcome to NZ!

Mostly I agree... but like you said, you're an ex-NZer. The govt recently introduced a new visa for new grads of NZ universities - a 6 month work visa. That's plenty of time to find a job and and once you have it, the visa gets extended to a full work permit. The process very simple so employers no longer have the no work permit excuse to employ you.

The Asian factor is a problem but then it's one even citizens (plenty of Asian citizens) and PRs have to overcome.

I do need some info here too.

wornbook, did you say that we need around NZ$12,000 per annual just for living? How about the fee?

I have some plan with my friend for further bachelor in IT course at there. Which University is skilled in IT field?

How about our grades to enroll in the University? Is it need more than 3.0 CGPA? Or any other qualifications?

Thanks a lots. Hope you can share more information on Studying in NZ with her. I bet there are lots of them wish to go there too.

Living expenses - like I said, it does vary quite a lot. Rent per week in Auckland is around $170. Dunedin (where Uni of Otago is) is about $100. But note that your lease in Dunedin will be for the whole year, ie 52 weeks, while you'll only stay for around 38-40 weeks. Auckland leases are more flexible. If you don't mind a really crappy place then it's cheaper. If you want to stay further away, it's also cheaper. Lots of things to consider: crappy flat = bad insulation so colder, more money on heating; further away you'll need to pay for transport.

For some estimates, see:
http://www.auckland.ac.nz/uoa/for/prospect...gcosts_home.cfm
http://www.otago.ac.nz/about/accommodation/budget.html

As an international student, you'll also have to budget for things like medical insurance, health checks for visa applications, phone calls home and of course, travel expenses.

Fees - unless you're doing something like medicine it's around $20,000 per year. Standard line, some unis are more expensive. In NZ, they charge you fees per paper. So the more papers you take, the higher the costs. But then maybe you can finish earlier and then save on living expenses.... Science papers or anything with labs will cost more cos of facillities needed. For exact fees, you'll have to check with the unis.

Ya, money money money... studying/living overseas is expensive.

I'd recommend staying in a hall of residence for the first year. Great for exposure, social life and just experiencing the Kiwi student life. I've noticed people who rent places by themselves tend to keep to their own groups without going out to mix. If you want to do that, might as well stay in Malaysia.

IT - I'm not sure if the unis offer IT. IT is quite a new sort of course - to be honest, I'm not sure exactly what is taght in IT. The more established ones tend to offer stuff like computer science and information science. Otago is excellant for computer science. As for IT, maybe AUT or one of the polys might.

Because there're so few unis in NZ, uni ranking isn't really important. Kiwis in general don't care too much about 'the best'. It's really all in 2 tiers (unofficially) - the first 4 and the next 4. Gaps between uni standards aren't big and the govt doesn't randomly hand out uni/uni college status like Malaysia does. The only exception is AUT.

-----------------------
Grades - may I know what you're studying now? Pre-u or twinning?

Other results you'll need is either IELTS or TOEFL. Some unis want 6.0 for IELTS, some want higher. I don't know what TOEFL scores are required, better to check with the uni.

------------------------
I recommend you check out the universities' websites. Quite informative.
www.auckland.ac.nz
www.otago.ac.nz
www.canterbury.ac.nz
www.vuw.ac.nz

www.massey.ac.nz
www.waikato.ac.nz
www.lincoln.ac.nz
www.aut.ac.nz

I think that's enough info for now.

This post has been edited by wornbook: Jun 11 2007, 09:26 AM

I went to south island and its !@^#%$!@#&^%!@# gorgeous. LOL.

haih...finding room in around uoa, any1??

if you have at least an A2 for English in your SPM, you do not need any IELTS or TOEFL to get into NZ's Uni.

I'm going to VUW next Feb, hopefully I can meet some of you LYN forummers here.

(http://forum.lowyat.net/topic/467413)Maybe someone should merge this thread with the other thread? Mods?

I persume you mean the 111/9 bit? I don't think the normal A2 is enough for NZ, through probably enough to get in and use the English preperation class.

Wellington eh? Be prepared for crazy winds there!

I sent my SPM cert there where the 111/9 scores aren't published. That's what the agent told me by the way.

Yeap, I have also heard about the windy weather there, hence I'm preparing to bring quite a lot of winter clothings there.

refer to this (http://forum.lowyat.net/topic/467413) thread. Don't bother buying any "winter" clothing in M'sia. Nothing, absolutely nothing, i tell you, in M'sia, no matter how thick it is, will withstand NZ winters.

Things may have changed, but I doubt so.

thank you for sharing mate

They accept 1119 now? Didn't know that. Wish they had back when I applied, would have saved myself quite a bit on IELTS.

I find the problem with jackets bought from Malaysia is - i) They're not warm enough or don't have wind-protection (vital for Welly); or ii) They're so think they're more suitable for Canada or something.

Wellington's quite a nice place. Some people find it a bit drab but it's ok in my books. It's the cultural heart of the country so if you like that sort of stuff you're going to the right place. I read somewhere that it has more bars and cafes per capita than New York. But since there aren't that many people, it doesn't add up to that many. Still, it has a good number.

May I ask what you're planning to study?

I'm pursuing a Bachelors of Business Administration there. As for the 1119, I was ignorant too till one of the representatives came down. I went to meet her in through an agency as my uni's University Placement Office's staff wasn't helpful at all.

Guys, any idea how long would it take to get a visa to study there? I got all the necessary documents (acceptance letter, bank statements, etc), just wonder how long did / would it take?

Your posts make me wanna pack my bags n go to Otago

Bleh am stuck @ Cyberjaya

from wat i read in my visa application form,it stated there that it would take about 2 weeks... u shud check with ur agent/uni though

Hey guys. Since there are at least 4 people (plus one ex-NZ'er!) in this forum, how bout let's make this a "Study in NZ" thread, much like the "study in australia" thread?

I'll start the ball rolling. ASB cranked up their savings interest rate from 7.15% to 7.65%! Time to switch?

was ASB all the way

That is a bit less compared to other countries iinm?

btw I was looking at entry (general and degree specific) requirements for Uni of Auckland here

http://www.auckland.ac.nz/uoa/for/prospect...ts_overseas.cfm
http://www.auckland.ac.nz/uoa/for/prospect...rements.cfm#sat

I'm a little unsure about something, can I as a malaysian apply with the SAT I?

This post has been edited by BurgaFlippinMan: Jun 25 2007, 07:12 PM

You should be able to. As long as you meet the minimum requirements. I know people who have applied using SAM and Australian Year 12.

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Added on June 25, 2007, 8:05 pmEmperorMeng, do you get taxed on your interest?

This post has been edited by haya: Jun 25 2007, 08:05 PM

Does malaysian highschool (up to SPM) plus SAT I fit in anywhere?

Burga - who is getting a bit impatient waiting for them to reply his email. Lol

This post has been edited by BurgaFlippinMan: Jun 25 2007, 11:17 PM

EmperorMeng got into UoA with SAM. It should be possible. I don't think UoA will take into consideration your SPM. Just out of curiosity, where did you sit for your SAT Burga?

Auckland U by and large should be prompt with their emails. However, they ARE 4 hours ahead of us, so while we're still working it's dinner time for them.

BurgaFlippinMan,
I find NZ institutions often have difficulty converting foreign qualifications. That probably explains the somehwat inconsistent entry requirements, ie SAT I. IMO, if they accept STPM and A'levels, they really should be asking for SAT II. But that's an aside. In any case, I have a friend in AUT who got in with SAT I (and no SPM) so it shouldn't be a problem with Auckland U. They also accept SAM and CPU.

Yes, their entry requirements aren't that high. When I applied, all they wanted was 3 Cs for Bursary for most courses (but higher for courses like engineering, medicine etc). Not sure what they want now - don't quite understan NCEA grading - but it seems pretty difficult to NOT achieve university entrance. But this isn't quite the place to rant about NCEA.

Haya,
Interest is always taxed isn't it? And at a higher rate if you don't have an IRD number.

Not in Australia if you're a intl student. Sigh. Thanks for the info.

I meant NZ. No worries.

SAT i dont know, why not SAM
I did SAM, cheaper than A levels and 1 yr only.
i dont save, sorry.
no income = no savings.
hence, no effect.
i suck

This post has been edited by EmperorMeng: Jun 26 2007, 03:36 PM

thats because I already sat for the SAT.

should be no problem, based on that link u gave.
are you still in college?
SAT of yours, finish already and meet requirement?

I'm in Upper Form 6 now, struggling a bit tho in the science stream (it was never quite my thing). SAT done and met requirements. Does this mean that I may be able to use SPM+SAT to apply since the SPM is an O-level equivalent? I've already emailed enquiries but have yet to get a reply.

which university are you planning to pursue in?

well I'm lookin at Auckland, but nothing is concrete...interested to do architecture though

When did you email your enquiries? Make sure you email the international office, not the faculty. It is a bit hard to get concrete information when you have a unusual qualification (I've been there. They seem to think all Malaysians do STPM/UEC).

For architecture you'll need more than just SAT. They require a portfolio (examples of your work). It's pretty difficult to get into Auckland Uni's architecture course... a lot of people I know opt for Unitec (a polytech) cos Auckland Uni rejected them. Not sure how it works for international students though.

SOrry I didnt see this reply earlier. THanks.

Some time at the end of last week. OK, I'll check where I mailed em too.



Yea I know. I just dont know whether the SPM+SAT combo will work.

If SAT without SPM works, I don't see why SAT with SPM won't work. That friend of mine who did SAT went thru a private homeschooling centre so she had ONLY SAT.

Did she submit anything else? Like her home school test scores? I know a friend who homeschools too and she has test scores to worry about too.

Well I got a reply finally. Apparently they want A-Levels. Lol you are right, they do seem kinda inconsistent with this.

there're plenty of options available, why not consider universities like Otago?

I dunno about her scores. When I asked her she just said SAT. Homeschool test scores can't be very consistent right? Then again, it was AUT, a more 'inferior' institution. Where did your friend go?

About the inconsistency, I'd have thought the unis are better than other institutions though, since they do see lots of internationals. But it looks like they're still confused.

I went through hell trying to get the schools to understand what SPM was so they could place me in Year 13 (equivalent to Aus Year 12 and SAM). Had to do a lot of quick talking. Ended up with them testing my knowledge of physics, chemistry and maths right there in the office - who the heck remembers that sort of stuff in January after SPM anyway?

Fortunately they're getting better now more and more Malaysians are coming in.

This post has been edited by wornbook: Jun 28 2007, 08:35 AM

Guys, please help me out here?

I'm trying to get a ticket to Wellington, NZ (return). So far, I tried STA and Sunway Travels:

STA - To Auckland and back (within a year). My bro have to find a domestic flight to Wellington himself.

RM3580.00 [ticket] + RM610.00 [tax] = RM4190.00


Sunway Travel - To Christchurch and then a domestic flight to Wellington.

RM3937.00 [ticket to Christchurch] + RM802.00 [tax] = RM4739.00
RM586.00 [ticket to Wellington] + RM70.00 [tax] = RM656.00*

GRAND TOTAL (Sunway Travel) = RM5359.00

*NOT two way. Just one way to Wellington, that's all.

---

Anyone else going or know some better options to do it? Please advice.

ticketworld.com.my from reliance, I thought their fares are reasonable

Do they have any branches to visit or numbers to call (within Malaysia)? Or is it an online service?

Trying it now, but latest booking have to be 3 days from current date. My bro needs to fly on 30th... Very very rushing, sigh.

no idea, but u can always try reliance malaysia from google to look for their contacts

I think at this late and last minute stage, this are the prices that you will have to pay. If you can make it to Singapore, Qantas (via Sydney or Melbroune) is quite reasonable. Unfortunately, AirNZ has stopped flying to Singapore, so if you want to catch a AirNZ flight to Wellington, it has to be via either Sydney, Melborune or even Brisbane.

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Added on July 5, 2007, 10:46 amhttp://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10449607

Did anyone get blown away?

This post has been edited by haya: Jul 5 2007, 10:46 AM

well, I've been wondering, what happened to this thread....where're all the new zealand students?

I'd like to ask the same question. You guys should be on holiday break. Where is everyone?

i'm not there yet, but it feels nice to talk with people who are there, will be heading there during feb next year. So far yet so close...

Awwwww. Doing what?

Anyway, welcome to New Zealand!

lol, heading to VUW for Commerce and Administration, by the way, what are the requirements for a PRship in NZ?

woo hows the engineering course in NZ? does it has good reputation? ...

im drinking beer while studying kamastura
hi, im in 1st yr engineering.

Er mind to elaborate hows the engineering esspecially (E&E) in NZ ? How much does it costs ? When is the next intake? Does the syllabus prepare you for your future? Compare with australia uni, which 1 is better in your opinion after studying in NZ?

This post has been edited by jasperng: Jul 12 2007, 09:34 PM

sorry la.. i just enter 1 semester.
but as far as i know next yr intake is on end feb or early march.
for engineering (4yrs) 1st yr in general (all take the same)
then u branch out starting ur 2nd yr.

compare with aus uni, i also wont know , coz i nv study in aus.
what preU are u taking now?

I just graduated from diploma in e&e..do they accept diploma? @@

ya , diploma should can.
http://www.engineering.auckland.ac.nz/uoa/...oucantgetin.cfm

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Added on July 12, 2007, 10:07 pmhttp://www.auckland.ac.nz/uoa/for/prospective/welcomes/internationalstudents/international.cfm
another helpful site.
u may also seek help from a nz universities agent. (SELSET)
its located at SS15, opposite taylors college subang jaya main gate

This post has been edited by EmperorMeng: Jul 12 2007, 10:07 PM

Haya,
It's still Auckland Uni's winter break now, the other unis started semester 2 on Monday. Unfortunately, no break for me. Been caught up with my research.

PR? The easiest way is to get a job after graduation. Once that's done, fill in an 'expression of interest' form and if you meet the points requirement (which you should if you have a job related to your degree), the govt will invite you to apply for PR. I haven't heard of anyone turned down yet. Govt's been slowly tightening the immigration policy so things might change in the future. Especially with the elections coming up... if there's a change of govt you can bet there'll be a policy change.

Alternatively, find a million NZ dollars from somewhere and apply under the 'Investment' category.

But seriously, the fastest and easiest way now would be to learn hairdressing, beekeeping, bricklaying or some other trade. NZ's desperately short of skilled tradesmen/women. Those are trades on the critical shortage list. No need to worry about studying hard for a degree.

This post has been edited by wornbook: Jul 14 2007, 09:52 AM

plenty of ways i see, so I assume that you're already a PR there?

Yes.

So you're doing commerce. What are you majoring in?

going into single major, Marketing I suppose, if not management and marketing

So true. I bet that most of the Chinese in NZ are those "give us a mil bucks and we'll give you a PR".

But if you really want to get a PR, be a baker. Last time I checked, it was the most popular course at Manukau Institute of Technology. Such a shame it's located at such a dodgy place through.

i am going to university of auckland (grafton campus i think) to complete my medical course. will be joining year 4 students. i will be leaving around january next year. its a twinning program.

i am planning to apply for grafton hall of residence. but the problem is there are little feedbacks from people staying in that hall. any advice from anyone who stayed there would be appreciated. any other options for accommodation will be appreciated as well.

oh btw i am a frequent internet user. my entertainment life mostly depends on p2p and torrents download. sometimes, i find staring at a high download speed as amusing. so, does the ISP block p2p and torrents? how about the price and the speed of internet connection?

This post has been edited by d(@@)b: Aug 5 2007, 05:14 PM

you from imu?


This post has been edited by lilredridinghood: Aug 5 2007, 06:16 PM

go hostel is goodlo, easy to find students around.
internet rate sux very very sux super f***ing sux.
if u r a torrent-er u gonna suffer like f***ing hell .
u can google for internet providers in nz
xtra , woosh , ocron, ihug, got somemore others i cant remember.\
the f***ing problem is, they count how much u pay by how much u dload.

YUP! ^ ^ nice to meet u!

the hostel charge 7 nz per week for internet access which is why i prefer staying in student residence (apart from free meal).



what they say is very general and broad.... i wonder if the hostel allows torrents and such...

This post has been edited by d(@@)b: Aug 5 2007, 07:52 PM

is nzd 7, unlimited internet?
how about the speed.
things are very cunning here when it comes to internet and money

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Added on August 5, 2007, 8:37 pmoh ya, outstation p2p is throttled like screamyx

This post has been edited by EmperorMeng: Aug 5 2007, 08:37 PM

am not from IMU here, but my friend is, and i suppose u know her.

its about RM65 per month. quite reasonable if it is unlimited, allow p2p and torrents. problem is they never specify the conditions, hence my curiosity.
if p2p throttled a bit i will not mind. but if they throttle till like below 10 kbps for 1 mbps broadband, then its very unreasonable d... i hope there are people here staying at grafton

btw, where did you stay in NZ? Which uni are you attending?

city campus

OK I already plan to study in New Zealand as it is a nice country. But there is a 99% chance I won't get a scholarship.

I just check the tuition fee and well I just give up my study, and just be here.
Is it always >300k for the entire 3-5 semester?

is grafton far from the city? hey probably we all could meet up sometimes...

btw, i just wanna know these stuff

1) do you need a tax file number if you're opening a bank account?
2) is the weather there freaking cold? a jumper would be sufficient? or do i need a jacket?
3) how far is grafton from the city? if there is a bus service, how long would it take and how much would it cost?
4) what important stuff should i bring along except books and clothes? erm, like stuff which are freaking expensive there but cheap here that i should bring along?
5) which phone services do you recommend? (for hand phone usage)
6) how much roughly the living cost for one month for a student? including transport, bill, stay, eat, entertainment etc etc

thx in advance

This post has been edited by d(@@)b: Aug 7 2007, 07:57 PM

we can always meet up, no prob

1. its called the IRD number, yes must if i remember correctly. (inland revenue something)
2. its not really cold, its the wind that is f***ing strong. a description of strong is , better to walk in the rain than to use umbrella. as for cold, different ppl different. some will be in shorts and tees while some will wear 3 layers of shirt + coat. i usually be in my long sleeve shirt (1 piece) and with a windbreaker (no cotton inside type) when outside. (this is winter) . otherwise its tees and shorts for me. used to it liao.
3. grafton walk 15-20 mins can gua.. should have a bus service, dont know how much, but will not be cheap, bus sux (pricE)
4. laptop lo... u bt ma.. basically living standard is high, so most things consider expensive here. for me, throw books lo.. i nv read anyway. i brought my football boots instead
5. handphone service also kena monopoly. telecom and vodafone, 2 providers. both also very high rates. best to go with plans available if u use ur handphone frequent. if not stick prepaid and utilize the free landline.
6. <300 per week ( dont booze around too much lo.. booze at home )

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Added on August 7, 2007, 8:25 pmnice country to stay =/= nice country to holiday.

This post has been edited by EmperorMeng: Aug 7 2007, 08:25 PM

1. err, IRD need to get from where?
4. laptop is a must d ^ ^ now downloading games, anime, tv series, pron etc etc so there won't be so boring
5. the free landline only for nz? does it include australia as well?
6. <300 shud be ok gua. staying residence 250 per week including meals, washing machine, phone line etc etc... still got extra 50 nz... i seldom booze also, everytime booze only got headache and hangover, all my fren can go fking high, real happy and do stupid stuff, then sleep... but for me, only freakin headache, cannot sleep at all thats why now seldom drink too much...

thx for the help.

1: www.ird.govt.nz. The form you need is here. (http://www.ird.govt.nz/forms-guides/title/forms-i/ir595-form-individualirdapp.html?id=homepage) Just follow the instructions.
2: laptop is a MUST as a student! Books etc are not a good idea. Remember you only have 20KG, so be wise and only pack the essentials. Just keep you "pron" in a safe place.......
5: free landline? since when? I use(d) vodafone, and it was good, through I do miss free txt weekends....
6: stick with tui. Its one of the best.

2. student can get until 30kg. which means 34.4 kg. external hard drive may be useful. u BT !
5.landline to landline local calls free ma.
6. when heineken is cheap, go for it :toungue:

You're referring to Grafton Hall's internet right? If so, you can forgot about torrents and most (if not all p2ps). Grafton is part of the Uni of Auckland, which like most unis overseas, has very strict terms of internet usage. 2 reasons - they don't want to get involved with breaches of copyright issues and they want to control the total amount of usage (if every student starts downloading like crazy the system will collapse).

I'm not sure if you'll be able to get an external (commercial) internet provider into the hall. There might be infrastructure issues. Then again, there's always Whoosh which is wireless... but more expensive I believe.

Grafton is one of the nicer halls in Auckland Uni. Ground are quite nice, it's quite small so it's more friendly, intimate and less formal. Has a relatively high concentration of Malaysian 4th year and above students, mainly IMU people. Only issue is that the rooms tend to be pretty small, corridors dark and bathrooms could do with updating.

1) You actually don't need an IRD number when you open a bank account. But without one, your interest gets taxed a much higher rate. So you can come in, open an account, deposit money, then only apply for an IRD number. That way you'll be able to get money in nice and early etc. But don't take too long about applying for the IRD number.

2) It varies from person to person. Average temperature in summer 25 degrees, in winter 10 degrees. Factor wind chill in as well. You won't need those super-thick winter jackets but you'll need something more substantial than a windbreaker/jumper. Auckland is always raining (especially during winter and spring) so I recommend a water-proof jacket. Umbrellas are useless thanks to the wind.

3) Walking distance... no idea about the bus.

4) Books - I won't recommend unless there are a couple of really core texts that you'll need. Those are generally much cheaper to buy in Msia but they're also super-heavy. Other stuff... handphone... can't think of anything else atm.

5) Free landline is only for local calls, within Auckland. Definitely not to Australia, not even to other parts of NZ. It's not entirely free since subscribers have to pay for line rental in the first place (not cheap). But since you're staying in a hall, that'll be taken care off. Most halls' phones are toll-bared. To make external calls you'll have to get a pre-paid calling card.
Handphone - I recommend Vodafone. Telecom is annoying cos you have to use their phones, can't use your phone from Msia. Vodafone Prepay prices are 20c for domestic SMS, 30c for international, 89c or $1.49 per minute call depending on the plan. I never call, too expensive. A good prepaid plan is Supa Prepay with TXT2000 - gives you 2000 SMSs a month for only $10. Only to other Vodafone phones though and calls are darn expensive at $1.49.

6) $300 per week should be about it... provided you're not really into a flashy lifestyle.

This post has been edited by wornbook: Aug 8 2007, 12:36 PM

5. ya, local calls are free, just that i have no idea what they mean by "local" (for grafton residence)
6. what is tui? a beverage? nvr heard of it before....

btw thanks for the advice

2. i heard some countries custom service are very strict. sometimes, they check external hd for any pirated stuff or so. is that true for nz? what if they found out my stash of pron and stuff?
6. that residence provides free milk, coffee etc etc. can make kahlua ^ ^ i like kahlua... not so strong, won't get headache




yes, i am considering grafton hall. i'd assumed the internet would be suck for torrents and p2p since its uni's residence anyway
does every room in grafton comes with a phone line? if so, external internet service won't be so much of a hassle right? i'll check about woosh meanwhile. i've tried jaring wireless before and boy, that wasn't a pleasant experience.... i hope this one is better

there's another residence called o'rouke which they claimed is the best residential hall. i think its private owned and not related to the university, internet service available but you need to pay 7 nz or something per week. they also charge for laundry and some small stuff. i would like to get some feedback about this o'rouke hall. thx in advance.

btw, did you know any IMU fellas studying in auckland?



did you stay in grafton before? do you have any picture of the room or hall? it would be very nice if you can post those i never trust those photos in ads cuz they look so fake.

4) handphone... i'll try get a cheap one there or i'll bring my old 3310 (is that the oldest? i'm hp illiterate)
5) for calls, i'll definitely get a prepaid card for international calls. thanks for reminding me ^ ^. handphone wise, i see what vodafone and other service provides.
6) ya, probably i'll buy a shaver. i heard cutting hair there costs approximately 300 nz... wow! i cut my hair for only rm 12. haha

thanks for the info, guys..

5) By local they mean within Auckland. As long as you don't have to dial an area code, it's local.
6) Tui is a brand of beer.


2) Customs - NZ customs have never checked my computer/hard-drive before. I don't think they ever will... they're much too worried about food and stuff that might destroy their agricultural sector. If you're worried, don't bring in any CDs/DVDs and just copy them into your computer. Should be fine then... But if you're really worried, just don't bring any over.
6) I dunno about every room etc. You'll have to check with the people at Grafton... they'll be able to give the most accurate info. I've never used Whoosh (use regular broadband) so can't help you there.


Hmm. I always thought O'Rouke was part of the uni. Anyway it looks quite pleasant from the outside but I've never been inside. Location is pretty good... just off the main street the city campus is on and within walking distance to the Grafton campus. Closer to main city centre/shopping area than Grafton Hall. Apart from that, I can't help you much, sorry.


Ya I know a couple of IMU people - in 5th and 6th years.
I've never stayed in Grafton but I have a few friends who do. Sorry no pics... I can ask my friends if they have pics but can't guarantee anything.

4) Cheap handphones are pretty easy to get (Telecom is currently selling a Sanyo for $49) but the catch is you'll have to go on plan. And you'll be bound to them for around 2 years (I think). Why not just buy a cheap one there? Unless it's a really special deal, the cheap phones in Msia are still cheaper than NZ.
6) $300? No lah... that's really extreme. You can get cheap (by NZ standards) here for around $10-15. There're some cheaper ones ($7-8) but those are mainly in the suburbs... will cost you more to travel there.

2. custom more worried that my football boots got virus
6. woosh wireless? i tried, that sucks. weather conditions affect signal. where worse than the rain and wind chamber, auckland
4. handphone buy msia, cheaper half price.

anyway hall of residence, online uni webpage got.
grafton will be convenient for you lo.

may i know what broadband you are using? price, speed, quality, torrenting? u have any recommendation?

ya, o'rouke got a high rating from qualmark. 4 star outta five, but price wise, its a bit high up...
do you mind giving me the contact no. for those IMU seniors? of course, if they agree. ^ ^

sry about the cutting hair stuff. it was 30 nz, typo.... 30nz for cutting hair in the campus.

I've never been to the Grafton Hall, so i cant say. O'rooke has always been part of the uni, unless things have changed. I didn't stay there, but had friends there, and went there often. All I can say is the walls there are made out of paper. Seriously. Hearing the cries and moans of lovemaking sessions aren't that rare. I'm serious.

NZ by and large don't really care what you bring in your HDD/CD/DVD. they're more concerned about your food destroying their livelihood. Still, if I open the paper one day and see a Malaysian arrested for bringing porn into NZ (it has happened here in OZ), at least I know who's that................................

Uni resnet's (residential networks) aren't that great. P2P is all blocked, and to be honest, no matter how bad Screamyx is, IMO it's still better than NZ's BB. their internet infrastructure leaves a bit to be desired, unless you have the dough to pay $200/month for a leased line.Even normal ISP's like xtra and ihug take a dim view of people using p2p. You might like to stock up..........

And whoosh is useless. I used it, and my friends still use it (contract period), and dropouts are frequent. Speeds aren't' that great. But atleast you don't need a phone line to get it. The lag (150-200ms) can make Skype calls unbearable.

Hair cut: i entrusted my friend with a comb and scissors, but I knew of this Asian place at Pakuranga which was cheap ($10, through it might have changed).

Auckland's called the city of sails. To have sails, you need wind. Lots of it. The first thing you learn is something called wind chill factor. The mercury may say its 15C, but with 40km/h winds you feel its more like 10C. Through I swear it was 0C. Doesn't help that streets like Albert St are wind tunnels; I hated walking pass it.

Tui, like L&P, is only available in NZ. Sometimes I wish they would export it. IMO Tui is so much nicer than heineken. And L&P is nothing like anything else in this world.

Don't expect the teleco price wars you're used to in NZ. Vodafone pratically has a monopoly on international students. not that we have much of a choice.

i survived on $250/wk. And last time I heard, it's still possible. Cheers.

My broadband is Xtra. My plan costs $40 /month - 3GB limit and slow uploads. I don't download much, play games etc so it works for me. More info on plans - http://jetstream.xtra.co.nz/chm/0,8763,203086-202321,00.html
If you exceed the limit, they cut the speed.

I'll ask my IMU friends for their permission first. Will PM you their contacts if they say yes.


I think that's pretty standard for all halls. That's the advantage of Grafton. It's mainly a more mature crowd and they tend to put the IMU students together so it's less likely your neighbour will keep you awake with his/her nocturnal activities.


There are plenty of places in the Eastern Suburbs which have $10 haircuts (sometimes less). But once you factor in the $12.80 fare and 2 hours on uncomfortable seats for a round trip, it's not quite so worth it anymore. Unless of course, you have a car.


So true. As a general rule, Asians and other migrants/int'l students use Vodafone and local Kiwis use Telecom.

this is the worst news ever.... i hope by next year they'll introduce some unlimited dl plan with decent price...



hmm, gonna try it...

grafton rent per week already exceeded 250 nz



they only cut the speed? for pro plan they mention surcharge of 2c per mb. does this apply to all the plan as well?



thanks a lot, please do tell them i am from imu as well



good, then i guess i'll go for grafton for the first year. then i'll look for cheaper alternatives...
thx for all the help ^ ^

L&P syok... will buy tui liao

not decent price also dont have.
i curi internet.. teh best

u curi from people who got wireless router but duno how to set password? if u got other way can pm me share share o

maybe its cafe, i dont know.
but whole house, only my room can
torrent torrent yahoo!

wah damn lucky... must find house near starbucks

they did once last year, when xtra introduced "Go large" which was "unlimited" as long as you don't dload more than 700Mb during peak hours. Unfortunately, the average speed on the network became 600BYTES/sec. So they got rid of it. Fact is, NZ's internet infrastructure is expensive. It doesn't help they're literary at the end of the world, and there isn't much economic incentive for them to make another cable (most, if not all's of NZ's internet traffic goes through one cable, across the ditch to australia)

Live, learn and adapt. You may not be able to dload 8GB/day, but there are some other good things to make full use of your limit.


Good god, what is the world coming to??


Most internet plans, once you hit the limit, you are speed reduced to about 64kbits. here's some math for you: 2 cents a MB works out to about $20 per extra GB over your limit. AVOID THAT LIKE A PLAGUE!


Unless fare prices have jumped exponentially since I left, from the city to Pakuranga on concession fares if only $3.50. But yes, time is a problem (it takes almost 1 hr to get there). Or just hitch a ride from your friends........

L&P FTW!!!!!!!!!

Oh, and I love the tui ad's. Like this one. Miss them heaps.

Yes they have... sigh. Prices just went up again. 5 stages (all the way to Pakuranga/Howick) one way now costs $6.40 (or maybe $6.50 can't remember). On a student concession it's $5.40. MADNESS!


I prefer the billboard ones.