The cost of being: A young New Zealander looking for work on their OE
A young New Zealander living in Germany shares their experience of navigating the high cost of living while unemployed. The article highlights the financial challenges of relocating abroad and the necessity of living off savings.
Why it matters
It provides a relatable, personal perspective on the 'OE' (Overseas Experience) phenomenon and the economic realities of expatriate life.
Share Story × Share Story Facebook Twitter Bluesky Reddit Email Linkedin Whatsapp Messenger As part of our series exploring how New Zealanders live and our relationship with money, a New Zealander in Germany explains the pros and cons of living and spending in Europe.
Want to be part of The Cost of Being? Fill out the questionnaire here .
Role: Unemployed — just started an OE in Europe but struggling to find work.
Salary/income/assets: Currently zilch. I get $350 a month from family. Right now I’m living off savings.
Rent/mortgage per week: My partner and I share one bedroom in a flat with two others, so my rent works out to be roughly $200 NZD per week. Sharing a room is definitely the only way we can afford to live in our chosen city.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in