The NZ Student Flat Survival Kit

Setting up a student flat can quietly cost you hundreds — or your bond.

Most students (and parents) don’t realise how easy it is to overspend, buy the wrong items, or make small rental mistakes that add up by the end of the year.

If your child is moving into a flat this February, these decisions are usually made before move-in — not after.

The NZ Student Flat Survival Kit shows you exactly how to set up a student flat properly, affordably, and rental-friendly — before money is wasted or bond issues begin.

This isn’t Pinterest inspiration or influencer advice — it’s clear, practical guidance designed for real NZ rentals.

 Buying this for your child?

If you’re helping your son or daughter set up their first flat, this guide gives you peace of mind that:

• They won’t damage the rental
• They won’t overspend on unnecessary items
• You won’t be topping up bond at the end of the year

Losing just $300 of bond or rebuying furniture once costs more than this entire kit.

✅ What’s inside the kit

✔ Simple layout guidance for small bedrooms, shared lounges, and kitchens

✔ Printable and editable room, kitchen, and shared flat budget templates

✔ A flat setup checklist to avoid missing essentials or buying duplicates

✔ Bond-friendly tips — what landlords usually allow (and what to avoid)

✔ Budget upgrade advice for $300–$1,000 setups

✔ Clear guidance on what’s worth spending money on — and what’s a waste

🎓 Who this is for

• University students renting flats anywhere in NZ
• First-time flatters or those moving into a new place
• Shared flats (2–6 people)
• Anyone wanting a functional, comfortable flat without damage or overspending

💡 Why this guide works

• Designed specifically for NZ rental flats
• Practical, easy-to-follow advice
• No design jargon
• No unnecessary spending
• Created to be used immediately, not just read

⏰ When should this guide be used?

This kit is designed to be used:

Before move-in day

During flat setup week

Before buying furniture, appliances, or décor

Before money is split between flatmates

Using it early helps avoid duplicate purchases, unnecessary spending, and bond-related issues later in the year.

📄 What you’ll receive

• Instant digital download (PDF)
• Printable checklists and budget sheets
• Editable budget templates you can reuse

Created by a Parent and Architectural Designer who sees the same student flat mistakes every year — and knows how easily they can be avoided.

Every rental is different. Always check your tenancy agreement before making changes. This guide helps you plan smarter and avoid common mistakes — not replace landlord or tenancy rules