Student Accomodation
Homestay Information at Melville High School
- New Zealand families are very friendly. Students will be welcomed into their homestay family.
- Students will be invited to join with the family outings and activities.
- New Zealand families usually eat together at the same time. Students are expected to join the family during this time.
- The homestay host needs to know at all times where the student is going. Communication between the homestay parents and students is necessary at all times.
- Students are not expected to help with home chores, except in their own room. Students are expected to keep their rooms tidy and other offers of help around the home are appreciated.
- The homestay host or International Centre staff will help if the student needs medical care. Students are responsible for their own medical costs and will have proof of medical insurance arranged at the time of enrolment at Melville High School.
- Students should not carry large sums of money with them. Pocket money should only be carried to cover personal weekly expenses like bus tickets and snack food to supplement lunches. Parents of overseas students would be best advised to deposit money with the school that students can draw for expenses as required. Money will be accounted for at all times.
- Students are expected to pay for their own telephone calls. Calls within Hamilton are free. For calls within New Zealand and overseas phone cards should be used.
- If the student wishes to bring friends to the homestay, he/she should first obtain the homestay's permission.
- In New Zealand, most families go to bed early and noise is not acceptable after a certain time. Students should use headphones for radios and CD's to avoid disturbing the household.
- Students will supply their own toiletries eg shampoo, toothpaste. Linen and bedding is supplied and a heater is provided for the bedroom. Host families will ensure the heater is operated safely to avoid the risk of fire.
Homestay for Overseas Students
Homestay placements are arranged by the Melville High School Homestay Coordinator.
Homestays are with New Zealand families and will normally be in a home where there are two parents. The Homestay families are usually close to our school and have all been vetted by New Zealand Police.
Homestay fees are paid directly to the school. The school will forward the money to the homestay on a weekly basis.
Students must not change their homestay without prior permission of the Director of International Students.
Where a homestay is not successful and change is necessary, one week's notice is required.
Homestays provide:
- Full board including all meals.
- A fully furnished bedroom with study facilities.
- All laundry facilities (except dry cleaning).
- Accommodation for 48 weeks in a school year. (Students may travel home during vacations but accommodation is contracted for the whole period).
- If a student chooses to go home during the Term holidays full homestay fees are still to be paid.
- If a student returns home during the Christmas holidays and is returning to the same homestay the following year a fee may be required to hold the room. There is no set rule however, we recommend between $0 up to $50 per week. (Or the fee as agreed with the Homestay Parents.)
Students are expected to provide:
- Personal toiletries.
- Own snack food (extra to meals).
- Personal entertainment costs.
Melville High School Homestay Coordinator will organise a suitable Homestay. We or an agent will meet your son or daughter at the Auckland International Airport, and deliver them to their homestay.
On their arrival in New Zealand, your child will receive Homestay Information for International Students, which will help them to adjust to their new lifestyle. Parents who have concerns about their child's welfare can contact the Director of International Students.
If you require Melville High School to find you accommodation please print the Accommodation Information (PDF) form and send it to the school.