Homestay
We offer a range of homestay options in Dunedin. Homestay is a unique experience, different from boarding or flatting. It's when you live with a New Zealand family and experience the Kiwi way of life.
Live with a Kiwi family
Homestay is an accommodation option mainly used by international students who would like to experience what it's like to live in a typical New Zealand home. This option can also be utilised by domestic students who are looking to move to Dunedin from around the country and want a family-like environment.
Our homestay host families live in different suburbs and areas of Dunedin. They come from both New Zealand, and all around the world and want to share their home with students. At their home, you will have your own bedroom with a bed, chest of drawers, wardrobe and a desk or quiet study space.
Benefits of homestay
Homestay accommodation is a great way to discover the food, culture and family way of life in a safe and supported environment. This allows students to develop their English language, receive support, care and individual attention, and participate in family activities and celebrations.
In return, students can teach their host families about their lifestyle, food, culture and home country. To students and their host families, we hope you enjoy your homestay experience and make the most of everything each has to offer.
Homestay costs
Our homestay costs for 2025 are listed below. The minimum stay in homestay is four weeks. There is no homestay accommodation in Central Otago.
Looking for homestay information about Auckland? Find out more by visiting this page.
| Homestay placement fee | $450 |
| Homestay change fee | $450* |
| Designated caregiver admin fee | $250 |
| Homestay fee for independent student or under 18 years of age | $58 per night / $406 per week plus a one-off placement fee of $450 (internet included, 2-3 days of transport, 3 meals a day) |
|
International College of Technology (ICT) and under 18 students Effective from April 2025 |
$58 per night / $406 per week plus a one-off placement fee of $450 (internet included, 2-3 days of transport, 3 meals a day) |
| Short course students | $75 per night / $525 per week plus a one-off placement fee of $450 (internet included, transport included, 3 meals a day) |
| Homestay fee for specific dietary requirements (includes short course) | $5 extra per night |
| Airport pickup | Free with Homestay |
All costs are listed in New Zealand Dollars (NZD).
*Homestay Change Fee:(Previously applied only to independent students, now applicable to ICT and Short Courses from March 2025)
Homestay application
If you like the sound of homestay and would like to apply, please email homestay@op.ac.nz.
Get in touch
Information for host families
Our homestay coordinators can provide assistance with any queries, problems or concerns regarding the homestay process. This includes placement of international students, payment and notification if the student is leaving your home or going on holiday, homestay arrangements and how the student is settling into your home. Support is also provided for both you and your student if you are concerned about their wellbeing or issues arising from their behaviour.
If you're keen on becoming a host family, or have a question, please email homestay@op.ac.nz
Homestay
Become a host
Find more information about the benefits of being a homestay host.
Contact us
If you’re not sure what to study and would like some guidance, we’re here to help. Feel free to chat to us directly about any questions you may have.
