Student flats still scarce

Accommodation for students this year is more scarce than ever.

"We are not keeping pace with the problem" said Mr Ian Boyd, Director of Student Welfare Services. "While new hostels are planned by the churches, they will be overcrowded by the expanding University."

The Accommodation Service expects that 600 students will be looking for accommodation this year. The situation is aggravated by the demolition of student flats in the path of the Motorway and flats in the Terrace area which are being removed to make way for office buildings.

The accommodation problem has been intensified by increased demands for flats from non-students who are looking for accommodation close to the City and who can afford to pay higher rents than most students. Also, landlords are often reluctant to rent flats to students — who generally want to rent flats during term time only — and have sought permanent tenants.

"Co-operation from the newspapers and the NZBC has helped to ease the problem," said Mr Boyd. "Despite the shortage, the Accommodation Service still inspects all accommodation before it is passed on to students. There is a demand for all types of accommodation-flats, hostels and private board."

The average price for men's board is $11-12 per week and women's board is generally about a dollar less. The Accommodation Service will continue advertising into the term as many students have only temporary accommodation.