I'm thinking of student teaching in Christchurch, New Zealand. What type of housing is available on a budget?

Question

It will be next year, 2008 for a duration of 8 weeks.

Answer 1

Rent is very high (along with everything else), typically $250-$400 per WEEK (if you want to avoid a total dump). I'm guessing you're looking for a furnished flat in town. You may want to try: www.virtualrealty.co.nz/tolet/canter
Note that many listing are by neighborhood. For example, Riccarton is near the University of Canterbury, and New Brighton is the northern beach area.

You may also want to check sabbaticalhomes.com or the University website: www.canterbury.ac.nz (look in the weekly uni diary--they often list available rentals).

Warning: Most houses do not have insulation, and the climate is quite cold. So be sure to ask specifically about insulation and heating--it will be a miserable 8 weeks if you don't!!

3 sq meters of wood--> NZ$180
And without insulation, much of the heat is lost through the windows (double glazing will help with that problem) walls, ceilings, and in some cases the floors (if raised floorboards). I just don't want you to be cold....being cold is just miserable!! =)

Answer 2

Living in Christchurch isn't that expensive. I'm from Toronto and I find the rent a lot more expensive.

I went to teachers college in Christchurch and I rented a house by the beach for $175 per week. It was a two bedroom house and it was great. It had everything we needed. You can get good deals but you just have to look for them. The transit system is very good so you can get anywhere in the city by only taking two buses.

It is true that it is cold in the winter but that is what the fire place is for. I would focus more on the fireplace than the insulation of the house. Wood is pretty cheap down there and that is how you heat your lounge.

Christchurch is a fantastic city......top notch. Don't pass up the opportunity to live there.

Answer 3

Single room with bath at a backpackers, that would be best. Probably around $200 week at a reasonable place. No power bills, phone bills, etc. Plus its social, you wont be watching TV every night, and likely to be in a great location. Or try flatting, but for such a short time you may find that difficult.