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.
Homestays are also a good option if you prefer living in a family environment. All homestay 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 share new experiences with.
This type of accommodation is suitable for individual students only.
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.
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.
Leanne and Brent Mora
T: +64 3 360 2394
Email
F: +64 3 360 2395
https://studentcare.co.nz/
Placement Fee:
All students: NZ$350
Weekly Fee:
All students: NZ$300
2023 Homestay Application Form
For further information refer to the fees and conditions on Page 2 of the application form.
Julie Manche
T: +64 9 884 8404
Email
https://www.newzealandhomestay.co.nz/
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$340
Under 18 half board (2 meals Monday-Friday,
3 meals on weekends): NZ$310
Over 18 full board (3 meals a day, 7 days a week): NZ$310
Over 18 half board (2 meals Monday-Friday,
3 meals on weekends): NZ$280
For further information see student overview.
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.
Marie and her husband Phil have hosted approximately 12-15 homestay students in the past ten years. The students have come from a variety of countries including China, Korea, Japan, the Netherlands and the USA. Learn about staying with Marie and Phil Macquet.
Marie and her husband Phil have hosted approximately 12-15 homestay students in the past ten years. The students have come from a variety of countries including China, Korea, Japan, the Netherlands and the USA. Learn about staying with Marie and Phil Macquet.
Find out what a homestay is like from Birgit van Huijgevoort, a Research Assistant/Intern in UC's Mechanical Engineering department.
Find out what a homestay is like from Birgit van Huijgevoort, a Research Assistant/Intern in UC's Mechanical Engineering department.
