Accommodation

It is important to make your accommodation arrangements for your first days in New Zealand before you leave your home country. As part of our service to International Students, the international support team is available to help you with your accommodation needs and to assist you to settle into the type of accommodation you choose.

Homestay Accommodation

If it is your first time coming to New Zealand, we strongly recommend homestay accommodation for you. Homestay accommodation gives students a caring, supportive, and secure environment to live and study in. It is also a great way to practice your English and experience life in Wellington and New Zealand.

You will need to book a homestay at least 4 weeks before arriving in New Zealand.

There is an Accommodation Placement Fee of $310.00 NZD which is non-refundable. The Homestay Fee is $340.00 NZD per week. You will be required to pay a minimum of four weeks homestay. After the four-week period the homestay becomes a private arrangement with your host.

Please complete the below form if you would like to apply for homestay accommodation, and email international.support@wandw.ac.nz.

Homestay booking form

What is included in Homestay Accommodation?

• A welcoming family environment
• Fully-furnished room and bedding
• Laundry facilities available for you to use
• Three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) a day
• Reasonable use of internet, electricity and water.

International students under 18 years of age

As per the Code of Practice, students under the age of 18 must live with a parent(s), a designated caregiver or an approved homestay while in New Zealand.

Flatting

Students also have the option to go flatting – renting a house or an apartment with friends. Your room is private and the lounge, kitchen and bathroom are shared. If you choose this type of shared accommodation, we recommend staying for the first four weeks in short term accommodation, as it can take some time to find a suitable place.

When flatting, you are responsible for paying your share of power/water/phone bills, cooking your own meals, doing your own laundry, and following the rental agreement.

If your flat is unfurnished you will need enough money for buying any required furniture, bedding, cooking utensils and other household items. You can find cheaper options in local second-hand shops.

Costs of Flatting

Renting a room in a shared house costs about $180 to $200 NZD per week.

See the New Zealand Government Tenancy Services website for more information on tenancy agreements, and your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.

Renting apartments and houses

Renting an apartment or house is a good option for both families and couples. 

UniLodge Stafford House

Room options include self-catered and fully furnished two or three-bedroom apartments. All apartments include a comfortable living area, bathroom, and fully equipped kitchen for residents to share. Wi-Fi, electricity, gas and water is all included in the weekly rate.

Short Term Accommodation

Wellington city and the surrounding suburbs have a number of short term and temporary accommodation options. When arranging these please ensure you go through the proper websites such as Roomies as these will provide you with some level of protection. Roomies is a Safe and Secure free service. Students can communicate though the onsite messaging system, so they do not have to reveal their personal details.

Check out Airbnb. Make sure you select the monthly stay option to get the best prices. Once you arrive in Wellington you can also look on the noticeboards on all campuses for accommodation options with other students.