FAQ's

Yes, we recommend that you discuss any house rules with your host family upon arrival. Although, it is up to the family to explain what their specific rules are.

Here are suggested rules you can enquire about with the family:

• Notification of when you will be leaving and returning to the house every day
• Informing the family if you will not be home in the evening
• Available food and use of kitchen

We offer optional transportation from the airport to your host family. Please let us know the date and time you will be arriving at the airport so that we can arrange your pickup.

If you prefer to find your own mode of transportation to your accommodation, please inform us of when you plan to arrive.

Once we receive your completed application, we will look for a host family that suits your needs. When we have your payment for a homestay, we will send a profile of the selected host family.

Your host family is not required to provide transportation. We try to minimise the commute between your homestay and your school/internship location. The bus or train will be the easiest means of travelling to and from your destination. We recommend that your host family assist you with the public transportation in your area. It will be helpful to find the nearest bus stops or train station so you are comfortable with travelling to your destinations.

Special arrangements for students 13 years old and under can be made upon request at an additional cost.

We recommend participants to apply at least 1 month in advance to allow time for us to receive your payment and to match you with one of our host families. For emergency bookings please contact us at info@hostfamilies.co.nz or +64 9 3581531.

The number of meals provided depends on the plan that is selected. We have three options from which you can choose:

• Full board: 3 meals per day
• Half board: 2 meals Monday – Friday, 3 meals Saturday & Sunday
• No meals (this option is not available for guests under 18 years old)

Yes. Below is our Refund and Cancellation Policy, which can be found on the Cancellation Form.

“When written notice of cancellation is received,

• 14 (+) Days prior to commencement of the Homestay, HFNZ will retain the Placement Fee and agrees to refund the balance of the Homestay fees paid, within 14 days of receipt of written notice of cancellation.
• 13 (-­‐) Days prior to commencement of the Homestay, HFNZ will retain the Placement Fee and a Late Cancellation Fee of $50, and agrees to refund the balance of Homestay fees paid, within 14 days of receipt of written notice of cancellation.
• 7 (-­‐) Days prior to commencement of the Homestay, HFNZ will retain the Placement Fee and 1 week’s Homestay fee, and agrees to refund the balance of Homestay fees paid, within 14 days of receipt of written notice of cancellation.”

Yes. These are the times for students 17 years and under to follow:

If you plan on returning home after the given times or will not be home at night, you MUST inform your caregiver that night and get their approval. Your host family must then inform Host Families NZ by the next morning.

Here at Host Families NZ we do our best to find a homestay that you will be satisfied with while you are in New Zealand. Our online application allows you to list your preferences and we will do our best to find a compatible family.

Living in a homestay is a wonderful opportunity to get exposure to a new culture and lifestyle. It is safe, affordable, and convenient accommodation with a family that is familiar with the country. You will have a chance to interact and participate in family activities making it feel like a home away from home. The relationships that you build in your homestay are rewarding and unforgettable.

You may specify whether or not you have special requirements or concerns that need to be considered when we search for a host family. We have numerous host families throughout New Zealand and will provide you with accommodation that meets your requests. If a special dietary requirement (vegetarian, dairy free, gluten free, only Halal food, etc.) or allergy (peanuts, shellfish, soy, etc.) is specified, you will need to pay an extra fee.

If you are not satisfied with your accommodation, you may fill out our Homestay 2 Weeks Notice form and request to transfer to another host family. Keep in mind that it will take two weeks from the date the form is signed and forwarded to Host Families NZ for us to make arrangements in a new homestay. To obtain this form, click here.

New Zealand is a very diverse country with many types of families. For some New Zealand families, a typical meal will consist of cooked meat (lamb, chicken, beef, or pork) with a side of veggies or salad. Also, fish and chips is a common New Zealand dish.

There is no one type of typical host family. Each family listed with Host Families NZ is different and unique, and we welcome all types to apply. Some families may be couples with young children or teenagers, or couples with no children currently living at home, or even a single person. Our goal is to provide a home away from home for every participant staying in New Zealand.

If you select the full board option at your homestay, your lunch will most likely include a sandwich, fruit, and yogurt (or other small snack).

Each family is required to provide the following:

• A fully furnished bedroom
• Bathroom
• Bed linen (sheets, pillow, and blankets) and towels
• Desk and chair
• Storage for belongings (such as a chest of drawers or closet)
• Wireless internet (an additional fee may be charged to the guest if necessary)
• TV in common area

If you would like additional items, you may bring your own from home or inquire with our team.

It is possible that you will be living with other international students during your stay. Some families are able to host multiple participants in their homes due to the availability of rooms, but they will not be of the same nationality unless requested.