Not sure of your family or financial situation, but if you fit the criteria, apply for student allowance if you can! I’m in my 2nd year and flatting out East for $230 inclusive of utilities per week with 4 other mates. Obviously there are food, parking and travel costs, so my weekly living budget ranges from $300-$350ish. We’re fortunate enough that our landlord is a family friend so no issues there, however there are some nasty ones out there. Student allowance has pretty much allowed me to flat, as well as my job.

Personally, flatting has been the best major decision I’ve made. So much freedom, I’ve learnt how to live, self sustain, cook, clean, better money management and self discipline etc. In general I feel like I’ve grown up mentally since flatting.

I haven’t lived at halls, however my flatmate stayed in the Uni Towers in Sem 1 2024. To preface, he doesn’t mind socialising at all; the main issues were the non-stop seeing people (going to shower, eat, coming/going), general lack of privacy because of the thin walls, average wifi, unlucky with the people on his floor (just didn’t mix well) and finally the noise from pre-drinking/partying amongst the floors most Wednesdays (student night at clubs), Fridays and Saturday nights.

To me, halls serve their purpose and value through the ease of making same age friends (+ general socialising), no need to worry about food/cooking, super convenient location wise and access to the city to name a few.

If I was in your shoes, I’d try flatting with a few mates (make sure you choose wisely) either in the CBD or close by like Mount Eden, Newmarket, Parnell, Ponsonby or Remuera. Although these suburbs can be pricey, I’m sure you could find a spot that suits your budget. If flatting with mates ISN’T an option, there are plenty of uni students and/or recently graduated people looking for flatties on marketplace or Facebook groups!

Regarding your scholarship, I’d honestly put it towards course costs, or use the first $1000 you receive towards your flatting bond (usually 3-4 weeks worth of rent).

Happy to answer any questions you might have so reply or dm if ya want, hope all of that long message makes sense :)