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Homestay and private board

20 September 2023

Homestay or private board is when a student lives with a local family in the family’s home. Find out about homestay and private board options while you're at UC.

HOW TO APPLY

Who homestay/private board 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. It also provides an opportunity for your host family to learn more about you and where you are from. We recommend all international students under the age of 18 on arrival apply for UC approved homestay accommodation.

Private boarding is a good option for any student preferring to live in a family environment. All host families are carefully selected for their friendly, helpful personalities and comfortable homes.  You will be matched with a host who shares a similar lifestyle and interests to yourself to establish a good connection right from the start of your stay. You will have your own space, but your hosts will be there to support you, talk to, and help you navigate the first few weeks as you settle into UC life and to Christchurch.

This type of accommodation is suitable for individual students only.

 

Locations in Christchurch

Homestays are available throughout Christchurch in a variety of homes, offering a diverse range of family structures, religions and cultures. Due to current demand for accommodation, you can expect to use a bike or bus to travel to campus.

How to apply for homestay/private board

UC has contracts with two homestay providers who manage the application and placement process for students. At least two week's notice is required to make a placement.  We recommend giving your homestay provider as much notice as possible to ensure your needs are met.

International Student Care

Leanne and Brent Mora
T: +64 3 360 2394
Email
F: +64 3 360 2395
https://studentcare.co.nz/

 

Placement Fee:
All students: NZ$375

Weekly Fee:
All students: NZ$330 (2024), NZ$345 (2025)

 

International Student Care Limited - Homestay Application Form

For further information refer to the fees and conditions below the application form.

New Zealand Homestay

Julie Manche
T: +64 9 884 8404
Email
https://www.newzealandhomestay.co.nz/university-of-canterbury-students/

 

Placement Fee:
Student under 18: NZ$350
Student over 18: NZ$300

Weekly Fee:
Under 18 full board (3 meals a day, 7 days a week): NZ$350
Under 18 half board (2 meals Monday-Friday,
3 meals on weekends): NZ$320
Over 18 full board (3 meals a day, 7 days a week): NZ$320
Over 18 half board (2 meals Monday-Friday,
3 meals on weekends): NZ$290

 

New Guest Application

For further information see student overview.

Pastoral Care Code of Practice

The University of Canterbury is committed to supporting the wellbeing and safety of our students. Along with other tertiary education providers in New Zealand, the University must ensure that it is compliant with the expectations set out in the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021.  Refer to our Pastoral Care webpage for further information.

Accommodation Services

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