Cost of Living

American software developer in Wānaka shares her budget and financial priorities

A 27-year-old American software developer on a temporary visa in Wānaka breaks down her weekly spending and long-term financial goals.

Skinny McBuntu

A software developer earning $75,000 NZD annually shares details of her weekly budget, including $350 rent, $440 on food, and significant spending on exercise and outdoor activities totalling around $7,000 per year. She spends heavily on healthcare costs due to her visa status, maintaining both emergency coverage in New Zealand and a US health plan. Despite describing herself as indulgent and anxious about money, she prioritises time outdoors and is saving to eventually work a four-day week in the United States.

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As part of our series exploring how New Zealanders live and our relationship with money, an American in New Zealand on a temporary visa explains when and where they spend and save. Want to be part of The Cost of…

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