International

Types of student accommodation

New Zealand offers a range of student accommodation to suit your lifestyle and budget. From private rentals and residential halls to homestays. Choosing the right place to live is a key part of your study journey, and we’re here to help.

Our International Student Advisor can support you in finding safe, welcoming, and affordable accommodation.

Contact Student Success Dunedin Campus
Phone: +64 3 477 3014 
Email: studentsuccess@op.ac.nz

Halls of Residence

Living with other students is a great way to adjust to life away from home. You will enjoy an instant sense of community with other new arrivals, and benefit from the safety of on-site support staff and optional organised recreational activities. Halls of residence provide low maintenance living, so that you can focus your energy on studying and exploring the local area.

Otago Polytechnic Student Village - Te Pā Tauira – Dunedin

More than just a place to live, Te Pā Tauira offers a vibrant student community where you’ll feel supported, connected, and at home.

Located right on Otago Polytechnic’s Dunedin campus, Te Pā Tauira is a modern, fully furnished student village with 231 beds. You’ll be just minutes from classes, the city centre, libraries, gyms, and sports grounds. Accommodation options include fully catered single rooms, self-catered studios and self-catered four-bedroom apartments.

Learn more about Te Pā Tauira Otago Polytechnic

Salmond College

Enjoy fully catered meals, excellent study and recreation facilities, and free academic tutorials – all in a vibrant, social environment designed to help you settle in and succeed.

Salmond College is a welcoming hall of residence in Dunedin, shared with the University of Otago. Just a 15-minute walk from Otago Polytechnic, it’s a great option for first-year students looking to live among like-minded peers.

Learn more about Salmond College

Homestay

Many international students choose homestay for their first month in New Zealand. It’s a great way to experience local culture, improve your English, and settle into life in Dunedin with the support of a caring host family.

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What’s included:

• A fully furnished private bedroom with a bed, desk, wardrobe, heater, and study space
• Three daily meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• A welcoming, inclusive home environment
• Internet access at home (some costs may apply) and free internet at Otago Polytechnic

You’ll be matched with a suitable host family through our trusted homestay provider. While Otago Polytechnic outsources the homestay service, our team is here to support you, especially in the event of an emergency or if you need help settling in.

Students under 18 must stay in supervised accommodation, as required by the Education Code of Practice 2021.

Learn more about homestay accommodation

‘Flatting’ or private shared accommodation

Flatting is a popular option for students who want more independence. You’ll share a house or apartment—called a flat—with other students or young professionals.

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What to expect when flatting:

• Each person usually has their own bedroom.
• Kitchens, bathrooms and living areas are shared.
• You’ll buy your own groceries and cook your own meals.
• You’ll split costs for rent, electricity, internet, and other bills.
• You’ll need to manage household responsibilities like cleaning and budgeting.

Flatting gives you freedom and flexibility but also requires more responsibility. It’s a great way to live independently, make friends and experience life in New Zealand like a local.

Learn more about flatting

Renting

If you're looking for a private place to live while you study, or want to provide accommodation for your family, renting is the perfect option. There are plenty of houses around Dunedin and Central Otago in quiet, family and pet friendly areas.

Before signing a lease, it’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.

Key Legal Points:

• Tenancy Agreement: Must be in writing and include rent, bond, duration, and conditions.
• Bond: Usually 4 weeks’ rent, held by Tenancy Services and refundable if the property is left in good condition.
• Types of Tenancy:
  • Fixed term: Set duration (e.g., 12 months)
  • Periodic: Ongoing, flexible with notice periods
• Tenant Rights:
  • Safe and healthy living conditions
  • Privacy (landlords must give 24 hours’ notice before visits)
  • Protection against unlawful eviction
• Landlord Responsibilities:
  • Maintain the property
  • Meet health and safety standards
  • Respect tenant privacy

For full details, visit Tenancy Services or Immigration NZ’s renting guide.

Tips for International Students

• Always inspect a property before signing a lease.
• Understand your tenancy agreement fully – you can get help from our International Student Advisor.
• Rent in New Zealand is usually charged weekly, so be prepared for the funds to leave your bank account so you don’t miss a payment.
• Budget for rent plus utilities (electricity, water, internet).
• Ask for help. Otago Polytechnic’s International Student Advisor is here to support you.

Learn more about renting