Homestays

BECOME A HOMESTAY FAMILY

Welcome an international student into your home and make a lasting impact.

Why Host?

Hosting an international student is a rewarding way to:

  • Share your culture and lifestyle
  • Support a young person’s growth and education
  • Build lifelong global connections

Being a homestay family is more than providing a room—it’s about creating a home away from home.

What We’re Looking For

We welcome families who:

  • Have a spare bedroom in the main home (not a sleepout)
  • Speak English as the primary language at home
  • Are warm, inclusive, and enjoy cultural exchange
  • Can set fair and supportive boundaries
  • Are active and willing to involve students in family life
  • Are empathetic and enjoy engaging with teenagers

How to Get Started

  1. Submit the Homestay - Expression of Interest From
  2. We'll Contact You:

    Our Homestay Coordinator will reach out to guide you through the next steps, including filling in a full application form.

  3. Safety Checks:

    Police vetting is required for all household members aged 18+.

  4. Home Visit:

    We’ll arrange a time to meet and learn more about your home and family routines.

  5. Student Matching:

    We’ll create a profile of your family and contact you when a suitable student is ready.

    Note: Registration does not guarantee immediate placement.

Want to Learn More?

Our International Department is here to help.

  • Email homestay@whs.ac.nz
  • Call school international office on (06) 349 0178 ext. 8756 during school hours.

(*) Last Reviewed: July 25, 2025

This post is over a year old. Some of the information this contains may be outdated.

Please email the office if you think this information requires review.