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Being a host to an international student, is a vital role that our host families play, during a student’s life away from their family and country.

There are many changes and cultural differences that a student will encounter while here in New Zealand, and as a host family, you have the ability to help these students settle and navigate their way through these new experiences. While students come here for a variety of reasons, the main reason is to improve their English. Being placed in a ‘Kiwi’ homestay will assist them with this.

To become registered as a Homestay Provider for international students at Tauranga Boys’ College, you will be required to:

  • Complete a questionnaire (to assist us in finding a home and student who “match”)
  • Undergo a police check (for all those 18yrs and over who live at the family home)
  • A house visit and interview

Should you meet all the requirements, we will then be happy to include your family on our database. Should a suitable student require accommodation, we will contact you.

Please note: being registered as a homestay with our school does not guarantee a student placement.

If you are interested in finding out more about being a Homestay Host, please complete the "Expression of Interest Form" below.

Expression of Interest Form

FAQ

WHAT MEALS DO I HAVE TO PROVIDE?

All meals including snacks.

IF WE GO TO A RESTAURANT OR HAVE TAKEAWAYS WHO PAYS?

If you go as a family, then you pay for your student.  If your student goes out on his own with his friends, then he pays.

CAN I ASK THE STUDENT FOR MILEAGE?

No this is covered in your homestay payment.

DO I HAVE TO BUY THE SCHOOL UNIFORM?

No, the students have an account at school that pays for their uniform.  What we do ask is if possible you take them to Greerton Menswear (with a voucher from us) before they start at school to pick up their uniform.  If this is not possible we arrange it at school on their first day.

DO I NEED TO TAKE THE STUDENTS TO ALL THE LOCAL TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN ROTORUA?

No, what we do ask is for you to show them around Tauranga and other areas if you are able to. We do expect you do family outings which include your student.

WHO PAYS FOR EXTRA ACTIVITIES?

If your student is going on a school camp or activity, then payment is made from their school expense account.  If you have invited your student to go to a family activity e.g. the Luge in Rotorua, you would invite your student and advise them what it will cost E.g. we are going to Rotorua and would love you to join us.  The luge will cost you $100.

WHEN AND HOW DO RECEIVE PAYMENT?

Homestays are paid fortnightly on Tuesdays in arrears by direct credit into your bank account?

AM I ABLE TO GET AN ADVANCE HOMESTAY PAYMENT?

No. Sorry that is not available


WHO PAYS FOR BUS PASSES AND MOBLIE PHONE TOP UPS?

Your student is responsible for both of these.

Homestay Resources