Sharing a house or 'flatting' is common in New Zealand, especially if you are younger and don’t have a family.

Flatting has the advantages of moving in with people who know the local area, and reducing the need to buy furniture and appliances.

In some flats, everyone shares cooking duties and the costs of buying food. In others, everyone buys and prepares their own food. Other costs like electricity are shared. Work out agreements about making payments, food and bills before you move in.

Flatting costs vary widely, depending on the desirability of the property and the room and location. You will normally need to pay a bond and rent in advance when you first move in, then weekly or monthly rent thereafter. In the long-run, flatting can be the most economical accommodation option.

People looking for new flatmates - ‘flatties’ - usually advertise on Trade Me in the ‘Flatmates wanted’ section and in local newspapers and noticeboards.

To learn more about flatting in New Zealand, see www.newzealandnow.com