DO I HAVE TO LIVE IN MOUNT MAUNGANUI OR PAPAMOA TO HOST A STUDENT FROM MOUNT MAUNGANUI COLLEGE?

Yes.  We currently require all of our host families to live in the Mount Maunganui or Papamoa area.

CAN I LEAVE MY STUDENT HOME ALONE OVERNIGHT BY THEMSELVES?

No!  Your student must never be left home overnight without a contracted host (or pre-approved adult) present.  If in doubt, speak to our Homestay Manager.

CAN MY STUDENT TRAVEL OUTSIDE OF THE LOCAL AREA BY THEMSELVES?

Independent travel is always a case by case situation.  The student must come and speak with the international staff at least one week prior to their desired travel.  There will be times when independent travel is not allowed.  If in doubt, please ask us.

DO I NEED TO SHOW MY STUDENT ALL OF THE LOCAL TOURIST SITES?

No, however what we do ask is for you to show them around Tauranga and other areas if you are able to. We do expect that you have family outings which include your student and expect that the homestay payment allows for you to do this once a month or so.  The students will have the opportunity to participate in school organised trips during term time, and organised tour group trips during holidays and some weekends.  They must speak to the international department staff if they wish to take part in these activities.

HOW DOES MY STUDENT GET THEIR SCHOOL UNIFORM?
We ask that you take your student to NZ Uniforms on Elizabeth Street, to purchase their full, correct, school uniform prior to their first day.  We recommend that they purchase the school jacket and / or jumper as they are unable to wear alternative items to stay warm on cooler days.  Students have funds available through their school account.

WHO PAYS FOR EXTRA ACTIVITIES?

If your student is going on a school camp or activity, they will be responsible for this payment.  If you have invited your student to go to a family activity e.g. the Luge in Rotorua, away for a trip etc, we would expect they are included as part of your family however, you must discuss this with them if you expect them to pay.  Please ensure this is made clear prior to the trip so that they can decide if they wish to participate or not.  You will need to ensure you have school approved alternate plans if you are out of town and if the student is not able to attend with you.

WHEN AND HOW DO WE RECEIVE PAYMENT?

Homestay payments in 2024 are $300 per student per week.  The school holds the students homestay amount in trust and the forwards this to host families.  This amount is paid weekly by direct credit into your nominated bank account.

AM I ABLE TO GET AN ADVANCE HOMESTAY PAYMENT?

No.

WHO PAYS FOR BUS PASSES AND MOBILE PHONE TOP UPS?

The school will provide all new students with a BeeCard for the bus.  Your student is responsible for top up of both the bus card and any mobile phone requirements.

CAN I ASK MY STUDENT TO BABYSIT?

No.  Students must not be asked to 'babysit' other children as this can compromise their student visa status and is not part of their enrolment contract.