Urban Student

Studying in Dunedin

Otago, New Zealand

Dunedin is a southern South Island city built around the University of Otago, New Zealand’s oldest. It has the country’s most concentrated and famous student culture, a compact campus-centred layout, and some of the most affordable living in New Zealand.

Universities and major institutes

  • University of Otago
  • Otago Polytechnic (Te Pūkenga)

Cost of living

Dunedin is one of New Zealand’s cheapest student cities. Expect NZD $160–$280 per week for a room in a shared flat, with most students living within walking distance of campus in the historic “Studentville” area.

Neighbourhoods for students

  • North Dunedin / Studentville — the dense student quarter beside the university.
  • City Centre — close to campus and shops.
  • Roslyn — a little quieter, up the hill.

Institutions in Dunedin