RNZ: Financial pressure reshaping university life, student leaders say
RNZ: Financial pressure reshaping university life, student leaders say
Student leaders say the rising cost of living is reshaping university life – and for some, putting tertiary study out of reach altogether.
Campus groups said demand for hardship help was climbing as students struggled to cover rent, food and power while balancing study and work.
At the Victoria University of Wellington Students’ Association, president Aidan Donohue said usage of basic support services had surged over the past year.
“We’re seeing students need support from other avenues to make up shortfalls in income,” he said.
“Rent, power, groceries – things you can’t choose not to buy – those are the key pressures.”
The association’s free community pantry ran out of funding before the end of last year after demand exceeded projections.
Donohue said international students were among those relying heavily on food parcels, alongside increasing use of free menstrual products and discounted rubbish bags.
