Homestay or private board is when a student lives with a local family in the family’s home.
Homestay Guide
A handy guide providing key information and responsibilities for homestay host(s), parent(s)/legal guardian(s) and students including:
- What a homestay is
- How to apply
- The role of International Student Care Ltd
- UC special requirements for U18 students
- UC support services
Homestay guide (PDF, 907KB, 15 pages)
Who homestay is suitable for
Homestays are very popular for international students with English as a second language. Homestays give you an opportunity to practice English and learn about New Zealand’s culture in a safe and supportive environment. We recommend all international students under the age of 18 on arrival apply for UC approved homestay accommodation.
Homestays are also a good option if you prefer living in a family environment. All homestay families are carefully selected for their friendly, helpful attitudes and comfortable homes.
This type of accommodation is suitable for individual students only.
When and how to apply for a homestay
Your applications for homestay accommodation must be received at least two weeks before arrival. Homestay is for a minimum period of 8 weeks’ accommodation.
Contact International Student Care or Accommodation Services/Te Ratonga Nohonga for an application form or see Homestay Application Form 2020 (PDF 153 KB).
Locations in Christchurch
Homestays are available throughout Christchurch in a variety of homes, offering a wide range of living situations, from families with children to single people living by themselves. Due to current demand for accommodation, you should expect to use a bike or bus to travel to campus.
Costs
2020 – One off placement fee of $350 (NZ$)
This covers:
- Vetting and selection of host family
- Arranging health and travel insurance, if required
- Arranging airport pick-up and transport to host family upon arrival
- Arrival pack containing bus schedules, orientation booklet in your language, and other relevant information
- Helping you to arrange a bank account, phone card and bus passes, if required
- Interpreter help during initial settlement period, if required
- Ongoing support and monitoring of placements
2020 – Weekly fee of $280 (NZ$)
This covers:
- A fully furnished room including desk, chair, good lighting, storage, bed and bedding, and heating
- Three meals per day- breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Bathroom and laundry facilities
- Power and telephone rental – toll calls and some internet charges are extra depending on your usage
Leaving a Homestay
When it comes time to leave your homestay, complete a Request to Leave Homestay Care form and send it to International Student Care.
More information
The Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students is designed to guide institutions in their practice, and to protect international students when they study in Aotearoa New Zealand. UC is a signatory to the Code and is required to meet the standards set by the New Zealand government.
Contact UC’s homestay agent, International Student Care to discuss homestay options.
Email [email protected]
Phone +64 3 360 2394
Fax +64 3 360 2395