Gym Deals for NZ Students
Regular exercise is essential for both physical and mental wellbeing, yet many NZ students struggle to afford gym memberships. Fortunately, several major NZ gym chains, university recreation centres, and organisations offer discounted rates and subsidies to students. According to the Ministry of Health, regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, which affect around 1 in 5 New Zealanders.
Student Discounts at Major NZ Gym Chains
Many major NZ gym chains offer discounted membership rates for students. For example, Les Mills and Jetts offer student discounts with prices starting from around $15-$20 per week. These discounts can provide students with access to a range of fitness equipment, group classes, and personal training sessions. Research has shown that exercising with others can enhance motivation and overall fitness outcomes, making gym memberships a great option for students looking to stay active and social.
- Les Mills: $15-$20 per week
- Jetts: $15-$20 per week
University Recreation Centres and Exercise NZ Subsidy
University recreation centres often provide affordable membership options for students, with prices starting from around $10-$15 per week. Additionally, Exercise NZ offers a subsidised gym membership scheme, which can provide students with discounts of up to 70% off regular membership prices. This subsidy programme is available to students who meet certain eligibility criteria, such as receiving a student allowance or being a low-income earner. By taking advantage of these options, students can stay active and healthy without breaking the bank.
- University recreation centres: $10-$15 per week
- Exercise NZ subsidy: up to 70% off regular membership prices
ClassPass Student Rate and Other Options
ClassPass, a fitness class booking platform, offers a discounted student rate, starting from around $10 per class. This can be a great option for students who prefer to try out different classes and workouts without committing to a full gym membership. Other options, such as outdoor fitness groups and community centres, can also provide affordable and social ways for students to stay active and engaged in physical activity.
- ClassPass student rate: $10 per class
- Outdoor fitness groups and community centres: prices vary
Taking the First Step
With so many affordable gym membership options available, there's never been a better time for NZ students to get active and healthy. By taking advantage of student discounts, subsidies, and other affordable fitness options, students can improve their physical and mental wellbeing, enhance their academic performance, and set themselves up for a lifetime of healthy habits. To find the best gym membership option for your needs and budget, start by comparing prices and facilities at different gyms, and don't hesitate to reach out to Exercise NZ or your university recreation centre for more information on subsidised membership schemes.
Get Started with Your Fitness Journey
Don't let cost hold you back from achieving your fitness goals. With the right gym membership and a bit of motivation, you can stay active, healthy, and happy throughout your student years and beyond. Take the first step today by comparing gym memberships, exploring subsidised options, and finding a fitness routine that works for you.
π―
Not sure which gym is right for you?
Answer 6 quick questions β get a personalised NZ gym recommendation in under 60 seconds. Free, no sign-up required.
Take the free quiz β
Ready to Join?
ClassPass β Try 500+ NZ Studios Free
Not sure which gym to commit to? Try ClassPass for a month free β access yoga, HIIT, pilates, barre, cycling and more across hundreds of NZ studios.
Start free month β
Compare All NZ Gyms
Side-by-side comparison of every major NZ gym chain β verified 2026 prices, contracts, features, and honest ratings.
Compare gyms β
NZ Gym Chains β Full Reviews
Snap Fitness NZ
24/7 access, no lock-in contracts, $14β$18/week. Full pricing and what members say.
Snap Fitness review β
Jetts Fitness NZ
From $14.95/week, 24/7 keyfob access, 40+ NZ locations. Is it worth it?
Jetts review β
City Fitness NZ
Best value full-service gym in Wellington, Auckland & Christchurch. From $12.90/week.
City Fitness review β
Les Mills NZ
Premium clubs with pools, world-class group fitness. $30β$38/week. Worth the price?
Les Mills review β
Compare All Gyms
Side-by-side: price, contract, hours, and features for every major NZ chain.
Compare gyms β
More NZ Gym Guides
Cheapest Gym in NZ
Real 2026 prices from $7.99/week and tips to get joining fees waived.
Read guide β
Best 24/7 Gym NZ
City Fitness, Jetts, Anytime Fitness, Snap β compared by price and coverage.
Read guide β
Yoga & Pilates NZ
Studio prices, reformer costs, and whether ClassPass beats a studio membership.
Read guide β
How to Cancel a Gym NZ
Your rights, step-by-step instructions, and how to avoid paying out your contract.
Read guide β