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Accommodation

Wharenoho

Most of our international students choose to live in our boarding houses while enrolled at St Andrew’s College, and find this a safe, comfortable and enjoyable experience. International students can also stay with a parent, while short-term international students also have a homestay option, usually with a College family, arranged by our Homestay Co-ordinator.

The boarding facilities and Pastoral Care at St Andrew’s are considered among the best in New Zealand. Our boarding staff have a clear understanding of the problems and concerns that can arise for students living away from home and in a culture different from their own. They are trained to address these in a sensitive and appropriate way.

St Andrew’s has three modern state-of-the-art boarding houses – Thompson House for girls, and Rutherford and MacGibbon Houses for boys. Each boarding house has a house manager and tutors who look after the students, help them with homework, and organise fun activities and events for them at weekends. Close supervision ensures students live comfortably and securely, while developing independence and maturity. Each house has relaxed communal spaces with Wi-Fi, and tea and coffee making facilities. Students have after-hours access to other facilities on campus such as the Library, gymnasiums and Fitness Centre. All meals are provided for students by our own catering team. This includes morning and afternoon teas.

St Andrew’s is proud of its boarding culture in which students are encouraged to foster a strong community spirit and achieve their potential.

Living with a Parent

If one or both parents choose to travel to Christchurch while their child is studying at St Andrew’s, it is perfectly acceptable for the child to live with them during the school year. However we will require evidence of the parent(s)’ eligibility to live in New Zealand for an extended period before any arrangement can be approved.

Living with a Homestay Family

Living with an approved homestay family is a wonderful way for an international student to become immersed in New Zealand culture and life. The families who host international students on behalf of the College are carefully chosen for their ability to make students from different cultures feel comfortable and supported. Many students establish great friendships with members of their homestay family, enabling their connection with New Zealand to endure well beyond their time at the College. This option is available to all international students studying at St Andrew’s College.

Homestay Hosting

If you have ever been interested in hosting students from abroad this is a great opportunity. We would love to hear from St Andrew’s College families who would be willing to share their home and daily lifestyle with students from a number of different countries. If you are interested please contact Director of International Students and Exchanges, Palē Tauti at PTU@stac.school.nz.