Can You Live for Less Than 1000 USD in Franz Josef Town? A Cost of Living Guide

Are you thinking about living in Franz Josef Town but concerned about the cost of living? Located on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Franz Josef Town is a popular tourist destination known for its glaciers and stunning natural landscapes. However, it can be challenging to budget while living in this beautiful destination. In this blog post, we will explore if it is possible to live in Franz Josef Town for less than 1000 USD and provide a cost of living guide.

Accommodation Costs in Franz Josef Town

When it comes to living expenses, accommodation is one of the biggest factors to consider. In Franz Josef Town, the cost of housing varies, depending on the type and location of the accommodation. If you are renting a one-bedroom apartment, your monthly rent can range from 800 USD to 1200 USD, with an additional expense of 100 USD to 200 USD per month for utilities, such as electricity, water, and internet. If you are looking for a shared accommodation option, you can save money by sharing a room, and the cost can be reduced by up to 50 percent. If you are looking for an affordable option, backpackers’ hostels are a great choice. You can expect to pay around 20 USD to 40 USD per night for a shared room in a backpackers’ hostel, with some hostels offering private rooms for around 70 USD to 100 USD per night.

Food Expenses in Franz Josef Town

It is not easy to budget groceries and eating out in Franz Josef Town, as many items have to be imported and shipped in, which can raise the cost of living. If you are on a budget, cooking at home is an excellent way to save money. The cost of groceries for a week can range from 50 USD to 100 USD, depending on your dietary requirements and preferences. If you prefer dining out, there are various restaurants offering cuisines from around the world, such as Thai, Japanese, Italian, and Indian. The cost of eating out in Franz Josef Town ranges from 15 USD to 30 USD per meal, depending on the restaurant and your order. However, eating out regularly can dig a hole in your budget, so it is best to opt for cooking at home for most meals.

Transportation Costs in Franz Josef Town

Public transportation is limited in Franz Josef Town, but the town is small enough to navigate on foot or by bicycle. If you are planning to travel around the town, renting a bicycle can be an affordable option with rentals starting from 15 USD a day. For longer distances, renting a car is a more convenient option, and the cost starts from 40 USD per day.

Utility Costs in Franz Josef Town

Utilities like electricity and water are essential, but the cost can add up quickly. The average cost of utilities in Franz Josef Town is around 100 USD to 200 USD per month, depending on your usage. It is essential to be mindful of your energy consumption to keep the cost down, such as turning off lights and electronics when not in use.

Entertainment and Other Expenses

Living in Franz Josef Town offers various outdoor activities and entertainment options. However, they can be expensive. A helicopter ride over the glaciers can cost up to 400 USD, while a guided hike can cost around 150 USD. Other activities like kayaking, skydiving, and hot pool bathing can cost between 50 USD to 200 USD per session. It is essential to budget these expenses and choose activities that fit within your budget.

Conclusion

Living in Franz Josef Town can be expensive, but with proper budgeting and planning, it is possible to live in this stunning destination for less than 1000 USD a month. Renting a shared room, cooking at home, and opting for public transportation can help keep the cost of living low. However, it is essential to budget for entertainment and other expenses, as these activities can add up quickly. By being mindful of your expenses, you can live in Franz Josef Town without breaking the bank. Thank you for taking the time to read our cost of living guide for Franz Josef Town. We hope that this guide helps you understand the cost of living in this beautiful destination and prepare for a budget-friendly move.

An Insider’s Guide to Franz Josef Town

Located on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Franz Josef Town is a small village that is surrounded by natural beauty. Tourists flock here to experience the Franz Josef Glacier, but there are plenty more hidden gems to discover. As a local, I want to share with you some of the unique experiences and lesser-known attractions that Franz Josef Town has to offer.

Local Attractions

In addition to the Franz Josef Glacier, there are several other natural wonders that are worth exploring. One such place is Okarito Lagoon, which is a stunning spot for birdwatching. Another hidden gem is the Tatare Tunnels Walkway, which is a short and easy walk that takes hikers through an old gold-mining tunnel.

For those who are looking to connect with the Maori culture, the Kiwi Birdlife Park is a must-visit. The park features a cultural show that provides an insight into the indigenous traditions and customs.

Dining Spots

The food culture in Franz Josef Town is predominantly influenced by the fresh produce in the region. The South Island is known for its seafood, and locals swear by the seafood chowder from Blue Ice Cafe. Another hidden gem is Full of Beans, which is a cozy cafe that serves up some of the best coffee in town.

One of the unique experiences is going on a guided tour of a New Zealand venison farm. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about sustainable farming practices and enjoy a locally sourced meal with freshly slaughtered game meat.

Cultural Experiences

Franz Josef Town hosts several annual events, such as the local farmers’ market, which is held every Sunday. The locals are friendly, and the market is a great way to mingle and sample local produce.

For art lovers, the Franz Josef Glass Studio and Gallery is a must-visit. The studio features beautiful glass art pieces that are inspired by the surrounding natural beauty.

Local History

There is a fascinating history of gold-mining in Franz Josef Town, and visitors can explore it at the West Coast Wildlife Centre and Museum. The museum features an extensive collection of artifacts and provides insight into the life of gold miners in the region.

Another captivating historical site is the Ross Goldfields Heritage Area, which is a short drive away from Franz Josef Town. It’s a preserved gold mining town that offers a glimpse into the past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

One of the unique experiences that most people don’t know about is soaking in the Hot Pools at Franz Josef Glacier. The Hot Pools are located an easy two-minute walk from the main street and offer an excellent way to relax after a long day of exploring.

Another hidden gem is exploring the Te Tahi Rainbow Belly Pools, which is a short and easy walk through native bushland. Once there, you’ll be rewarded with a picturesque waterfall and crystal clear pools.

Franz Josef Town is a beautiful destination that offers an abundance of unique experiences. This insider’s guide provides a glimpse into some of the lesser-known attractions and hidden gems that Franz Josef Town has to offer. So pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable trip to Franz Josef Town!