Malaysian Woman Shares Harsh Reality of New Zealand Working Holiday Costs
Malaysian Woman Breaks Down Shocking Upfront Costs
A Malaysian woman, Cheah Nan Yi, has gone viral after revealing the brutal financial truth behind a New Zealand working holiday — including how her first month’s earnings went entirely towards repaying debts from her initial expenses.
She detailed every cost, and the numbers have left many stunned.
The Full Expense Breakdown
Visa (2025): NZD770 (RM1,990)
Flight from Seoul: RM2,865
Accommodation (monthly): NZD680 (RM1,700)
Phone plan (3 months): NZD69 (RM200)
Living expenses (monthly): NZD500 (RM1,250)
Car (optional): NZD3,000–5,000 (RM7,500–RM12,000)
Car insurance: NZD100 (RM250)
This means the total upfront cost ranges from RM6,000 to RM10,000 without a car, and RM12,000 to RM20,000 with one.
What the Working Holiday Visa Offers
Malaysians aged 18 to 30 can apply for a New Zealand working holiday visa, allowing them to travel, work, and study for up to 12 months. Common jobs include fruit picking, warehousing, retail, and food and beverage service.
The Reality: Breaking Even in the First Month
With New Zealand’s minimum wage at NZD23.50 per hour, a standard 40-hour work week earns NZD940 (around RM2,350) before taxes.
While some travellers save over RM20,000 during their stay, Cheah’s first month’s salary went entirely towards paying back what she had already spent.
“I just kept spending and spending,” she admitted, sharing receipts from motels to restaurant meals.
The Expensive Lesson
After two months, she managed to save about RM20,000 — but the reality is her first month was purely about breaking even.
Her advice to others: budget properly and avoid overspending, especially on dining out.
More Than Just About the Money
Despite the financial strain, many still pursue working holidays in New Zealand, valuing the experience over the cost.
The chance to immerse in a new culture, gain independence, and create unforgettable memories often outweighs the financial aspect — making it more of an investment in life experiences than just a money-making venture.
Disclaimer – NasiLemakDaily:
The views expressed in this article are based on eyewitness accounts and available reports. NasiLemakDaily does not endorse any discriminatory remarks mentioned in the incident.
Source: TIKTOK
@julializthong94 #tomatopickingnz #workingholidayvisanewzealand #malaysiantiktok #vlog as a tomato picker for a day as a Malaysian working holiday visa holder in New Zealand.
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