Whether it's a dayshift of dancing on Castle Street, lining your pre-exam stomach with a cheese scone on Welly waterfront, or channelling Charlie and The Chocolate Factory’s grandparents with a Sunday rot sesh, life as a Kiwi student is quite simply unmatched.
But despite the joys of having few responsibilities and a bunch of new mates, uni life is far from cheap. Crippling rent prices, endless gig tickets, and the need for some non-beige sustenance—out-of-home expenses can be a buzzkill when it comes to soaking up the endless good times.
But those gig tickets and weeknight feeds are a saviour when a seven-hour shift in the library rolls around. So we teamed up with the money-savvy crew at ASB to bring you a one-stop saving guide, to help you level up your money game this year.
Snap Up Those Discounts
Far more than a form of backup ID, the power of a student card should not be overlooked. Having one of these bad boys opens the door to a discount dynasty, and a world of exclusive promos and deals across popular brands, food spots, and entertainment venues—so you can save the cash without the FOMO.
We're talking everything from Spotify and flights to tattoos and gym memberships. Our deal of the moment? Whenever hot chippies are calling, be sure to flash your student card at Burgerfuel to receive Free Spud Fries and BurgerFuel Aioli when you purchase any large gourmet burger.
Become A Breather On A Budget
Having a budget doesn't have to mean restricting the fun stuff—it can help you spend smarter and hopefully save a little change for something special. It'll also keep you accountable for keeping track of where your money's going (and if you need to cut back on your six iced matchas a week), so you can still make the most of student life.
Not sure where to start? Try the 50:30:20 method—where you split your paycheck according to priorities. 50% to cover your basic needs like rent, groceries and bills (gig tickets don't quite cut it here), 30% to your wants (this is where the gig tickets come in) and 20% to save away for a rainy day. 50:30:20 not the right ratio for you? Change up the percentages based on what works, and as long as you stay consistent, you’re on the right track.
For more tips and tools to build good spending habits, head here.
Chef Up With The Flat
Newsflash, eating at home is cheaper than a quick ramen from Riccarton Mall food court on your way home from campus. So, whether you're a fresher living it up in halls or a long-time flatter, starting your week with a solid meal plan and sticking to it will do wonders for the health of your body and bank account.
Double on those savings and share the cooking schedule with your flatties for the ultimate time and money saver. With flat feeds becoming a trending topic, finding at-home, budget-friendly meal ideas is easier than ever. Massey University’s Massive Magazine’s cooking column, Auckland musician Xuzz’s ‘Takaboys’ TikTok Series, and of course the longstanding Foodie Flatties from Dunedin are our go-tos.
Chase A Cheeky Side Hustle
A handy trick for saving money is making it—funny that. Locking down a part-time job that works in unison with your studies and social life is a great way to put a bit more in your pocket.
From covering necessities to your weekly Rob Roy treat, a part-time job comes with plenty of perks. As long as you stay on top of work and wellness, that Monday arvo shift is well worth the effort.
Shop Second Hand
Securing second-hand textbooks, stationery, furniture, tech, and other goodies via the likes of Facebook community groups and Marketplace is a money-saving must—just make sure you take a sec to check it’s legit. And when it comes to clothes, we don’t doubt you've got your thrifting favourites sussed.
If you find yourself in need of some cheap pieces for your next red card turned flat-warming, Recycle Boutique, Paper Bag Princess and SaveMart are our trusty treasureboxes with stores across the country. And for our Ōtautahi crew, the pink palace Nifty on Cashel Street is a colourful emporium of unique pieces bound to solve any pressing deadline woes.
Save For Future You
Many Kiwi citizens are likely holders of a KiwiSaver account—the work-based investment initiative helping New Zealanders build their savings in a way that's sustainable and stress-free. If you have one but don't know where a cut of your paycheck is going each month, we got you.
This handy scheme helps by contributing a percentage of your wages into your KiwiSaver account, which can generally only be accessed when you buy your first home, or for retirement. If you contribute at least 3% of your regular income, your employer will contribute 3% of your before-tax pay. To top it off, your KiwiSaver contributions come straight out of your paycheck before your income even lands in your account.
The Government will also contribute up to $521.43 per year if you contribute $1042.86, which is just $21 per week—suss more on how to secure that coin here. Contributing to your KiwiSaver account is an epic way to continuously save for future you, without the admin.
Find Fun In The Free
With our choice of campuses sitting pretty in New Zealand's most vibrant cities, there's a stack of ways to keep yourself entertained while spending smart. Whether it's a visit to Te Papa, a day at Sumner, a hike up Signal Hill, or a date night at Silo Cinema, 2025 is all about finding fun in the free. Local council websites are a great place to start.
For more tips, tools, and tricks to turn you from a struggling student to a savvy one, ASB has got your back. Stop wasting time worrying about the cost of that post-lecture oat flatty and get clued up on how to level up your money game here.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by ASB and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why, read our editorial policy here.
ASB Bank Limited’s terms apply.
The information and tools suggested are intended to provide general information only. It is not financial advice and does not take into consideration your personal needs and financial circumstances. You should consider seeking financial advice before making any decision based on this information.
Interests in the ASB KiwiSaver Scheme (Scheme) are issued by ASB Group Investments Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of ASB Bank Limited (ASB). ASB provides Scheme administration and distribution services. No person guarantees interests in the Scheme. Interests in the Scheme are not deposits or other liabilities of ASB. They are subject to investment risk, including possible loss of income and principal invested. For more information see the ASB KiwiSaver Scheme Product Disclosure Statement available from this website and the register of offers of financial products at www.disclose-register.companiesoffice.govt.nz (search for ASB KiwiSaver Scheme).
Image Credit: Urban List.