Hey Wellington!
I'm 26, single, and moving from Southeast Asia to Wellington this November to study a Master of Global Business at VUW (Pipitea campus). My student visa and enrolment are all sorted, but I still haven't figured out accommodation haha.
It's 27 October and I'm still overseas. International orientation is on 10–12 November, and classes start on the 16th, so things are getting pretty close.
Honestly, after months of paperwork and preparing to move abroad, I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed. My biggest concern is committing to a long-term rental without seeing it first. What if the room is damp, the flatmates aren't a good fit, or I just don't feel comfortable living there?
Would you recommend booking somewhere flexible for 2–3 weeks and looking for a long-term place once I arrive? Or would it be better to arrange everything before leaving?
I'm also unsure whether VUW halls, a private flatshare, or a studio would suit me best. I value privacy and independence, but I'm open to living with friendly flatmates.
Where would you recommend looking for accommodation? Any reliable websites, neighbourhoods with easy access to Pipitea, or rental red flags I should know about?
And if you were in my position, how would you plan the next couple of weeks? When would you aim to arrive and start looking for a place?
I'd especially appreciate hearing from current or former international students who've been through this, as well as Wellington locals who know the rental market.
Thanks so much for any advice! :)
P.S. I took down my earlier post because it was way too long and didn't really get to the point haha. Sorry for reposting! I'm genuinely looking for some advice from Wellington locals, so I'd really appreciate any tips or personal experiences. Thanks again!