Why Every NZ Student Needs to Know About Discounts
Rents are going through the roof and student life can be pretty difficult in New Zealand, but you don’t need to break the bank. You can score discounts on technology gadgets, grocery shopping, getting around, fashion, and a lot more as they are a student’s budget-stretching secret weapon. In this article, we break down the top platforms, deals, and expert tips on getting the best out of your cash for everyday basics across New Zealand.
Student Discount Programs
To enjoy special deals, first, join these reputable websites:
Unidays: This free membership offers discounts ranging from 10-20% off on brands such as Apple, Microsoft, and The Warehouse.
Student Beans: These are similar to Unidays with deals on Rebel Sport, Lenovo, and local cafes.
ISIC (International Student Identity Card): An international student’s best friend that gives discounts in traveling, accommodations, and events.
Pro Tip: Student status can only be verified with a .ac.nz email or institution ID to unlock these deals.
Must-Have Student Discounts by Category
1. Technology & Gadgets: Save on Study Tools
Tech is expensive, but the following student discounts make it affordable.
- Apple Education Store: Up to 10% off MacBooks and iPads.
- Microsoft: 10% off Surface devices and free Office 365.
- PB Tech: Regular student promotions on laptops and accessories.
2. Fashion & Clothing: Look Sharp for Less
Stay stylish without overspending with the following platforms.
- Cotton On: 15% off in-store with a student ID.
- ASOS: 10% off through Unidays.
- Glassons: Seasonal student sales.
3. Food & Groceries: Budget-Friendly Meals
Save on snacks and groceries with the following.
- Countdown: 5% off with a Student Price Card.
- Hell Pizza: 30% off every Monday for students.
- Subway: Free drink with a 6-inch sub (show your ID).
4. Transportation: Cheap Travel for Students
Cut commuting costs with the following.
- AT Hop Card (Auckland): Discounted public transport fares by 20%.
- InterCity: Use an ISIC card to enjoy 15% off bus ticket prices.
- Air New Zealand: Discounted student domestic flights
5. Fun on a Student Budget
Have a great time while keeping your budget intact with the following options.
- Event Cinemas: $13 tickets on Tuesdays.
- Spotify Premium: 50% off for students.
- University Events: Free or discounted gigs and festivals.
How to Find Hidden Student Discounts in NZ
While not many retailers promote discounts. you can try the following hacks to save some money.
- Ask in-store: “Do you have a student discount?” works like magic.
- Browser extensions: Honey and StudentBeans automatically apply coupon codes.
- Social media: Follow brands like Burger King NZ for flash deals.
Local vs. International Student Discounts
- Local students: Use your institution ID for most in-store deals.
- International students: ISIC card widely accepted for travel, tech, and dining.
- Bonus: Banks ASB often offers fee-free account options to international students.
Seasonal Sales
Get the best of seasonal sales with the following.
- Back-to-School in February: Deals on laptops and textbooks at Noel Leeming and Paper Plus
- End-of-semester June and November: Sale on clothes and travel deals
- Black Friday: Pair the student discounts with site-wide discounts
Pro Tips: You can save more on the deals mentioned above with the following tips.
- Always Keep Your ID: Always have an ID. 10% may be availed even from the small cafe.
- Combine deals: Use a student discount + cashback app (e.g., ShopBack).
- Buy secondhand: TradeMe and Facebook Marketplace are goldmines
FAQs: Your Student Discount Questions Answered
“Do all NZ stores accept student discounts?“
No—always ask or check the retailer’s website first.
“Can online students get discounts?“
Yes! Use your institution email to verify eligibility on Unidays/Student Beans.
“Are part-time students eligible?“
Most programs require at least half-time enrollment.
Conclusion: Start Saving Today
Student life in New Zealand doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right discounts, apps, and timing, you can save hundreds annually on essentials. Bookmark this guide, share it with classmates, and keep your student ID handy—it’s your ticket to a budget-friendly education!
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