Become a Host Family with HHS
Are you interested in opening your home to international students and becoming a part of their exciting educational journey? Join our diverse community of host families at HHS and embark on a rewarding experience that fosters cultural exchange and lifelong connections.
Why Host with HHS?
Cultural Exchange
Hosting international students allows you and those living in your
household to enjoy learning about different cultures and traditions without leaving your home. It's a unique opportunity to see the world through the eyes of your student guests.
Professional Support
When you become an HHS host family, you're not alone. You'll have access to our support network, guidance, and resources to ensure a successful homestay experience. Our dedicated staff are always here to help.
Lifelong Friendships
Many host families and students forge lasting bonds that extend far beyond the homestay period. You'll create meaningful memories that can last a lifetime and you may gain a lifelong extended family member.
Flexible Service
You'll only need to apply once to become a registered HHS host, and we will continuously place suitable students to you. You can choose whether to accept the guest, and choose the services you want to offer.
Educational Enrichment
By hosting a student, you'll play a crucial role in their educational journey. Your support can help them excel academically and personally and gain valuable life skills, leaving a lasting impact on their future.
Extra Income
Offering your home and hosting our international students can provide an additional source of income. HHS will deal with all our guests' payments and then transfer host reimbursements directly to your bank account.
Requirements of a Host
Hosting with HHS is open to families of all backgrounds. There are a few basic requirements that a HHS registered host family should meet:
​
-
Successfully pass our safety checks, which includes a police vet check of all household members who are over the age of 18.
​
-
The primary host, who will be the student's residential caregiver, must be over the age of 25, and complete a reference check.
​
-
Be able to speak fluent English, and speak with the student in English at all times.
​
-
Provide the student with a private and comfortable bedroom, nutritious meals, access to laundry and internet.
​
-
Enforce simple house rules and provide supervision to the student.
-
Create a friendly and supportive family environment, offer time and assistance to the student and help them adjust to a foreign country.
​
-
Help the student to understand New Zealand customs and laws, while being open-minded and interested in learning about the student’s culture.
How Do I Apply?
1. Understand the Responsibilities:
Before applying, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the rules and guidelines of our Homestay Handbook for Host Families. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure a smooth experience.
2.Submit Application:
Start you application by completing our Homestay Host Application Form and Vetting Service Request & Consent Form, and email them back to us. We will then carry out the screening and safety check process.
3. Interview & Inspection:
We will conduct a home visit to you, to make sure that your home environment is suitable and the information you provided in the application is true. We will also give you a briefing on how to become an amazing host.
4. Host Agreement:
After your application has been approved, we will send you a Host Agreement and relevant policies. Once you have signed and returned the Host Agreement, you will become a HHS registered host. You are now ready to host our guests.
5. Guest Placement:
When we have a guest whom we want to place with you, you will receive details of the guest and decide whether to accept the placement. We will carefully match you with a guest whose preferences align with your household dynamics and interests.