Waikato University boasts some of the lowest union fees in the country, with students paying considerably less than those in other institutions.

Waikato students pay only $95 in student union fees per year which covers WSU services and events - these are the general costs that all tertiary institutions incur. Waikato University is one of the only universities which does not charge its students for an O-week pass which in Canterbury and other universities can cost more than $100.

The University of Auckland student association charges its students $130, Massey University’s charges $140 and Otago’s student union $165.

The fact that other universities charge for O-week does not mean they host better events; former Massey University student Alisha Huijs says that, in comparison, Waikato University O-Week is considerably more enjoyable than that of Massey.

"Their O-week was horrible; the events were overpriced for what you got and the nightlife was slack" she said.

However, as Waikato University grows in student population and with the economic downturn looming, the question is whether these fees will go up. WSU Manager David West said that it "depends on what students want to do and how much that is going to cost us". Whether the fees will go up is a matter of the overall budget; getting the money we need without being extravagant with it.

If you have any views or ideas about the budget or student union fees then come along to the Student Budget Consultation on 3 – 14 August.