Becoming a Homestay

Welcoming an international student into your family is a truly rewarding experience—one that creates memories and connections that last a lifetime.

We are looking for kind and caring hosts to welcome students from Japan in Whitianga, Thames and Ngatea.

High School Students

Age
14-17
Duration
One week up to forty-weeks

Family Course (Thames only)

Age
Kindergarten to Middle school aged children with parents
Duration
Two weeks up to six weeks

Homestay hosts can let Evakona know their preferences. We are also looking for a self-contained unit / sleep out for up to 3-4 people. (1-2 adults and 1-3 children)

Please contact the Evakona office for more information or email
info@evakona.co.nz

Process of Becoming a Homestay

  1. 1

    Complete the Homestay Application Form

    Send the completed form to Evakona by:

    Email
    info@evakona.co.nz

    Post or drop it off at

    Whitianga
    18 South Highway, Whitianga 3510
    Thames
    415 Mackay Street, Thames 3500
  2. 2

    Police Check

    A Police Vet application form will be given to you after your homestay application is completed.

  3. 3

    Student Matching

    The Homestay Coordinator will contact you when a suitable student is matched with your home.

  4. 4

    Criteria for Becoming a Homestay

    No homestay experience required.You must have a safe and comfortable spare room for the student,

    No homestay experience required.
    You must have a safe and comfortable spare room for the student,

    Including:

    • Bed
    • Drawers or storage for clothes
    • Study desk
    • Good lighting and a bedside lamp
    • Wi-Fi access
    • You must be able to provide three healthy meals per day.

    If you live outside of town, you must have:

    • A valid driver’s licence
    • A reliable vehicle

    NOTE: Evakona students studying in the High School Preparation Programme cannot use the school bus.

Process of Becoming a Homestay

Important: All homestay hosts must complete a background check, including information sharing and a police vet.

    Are you willing to complete a background check, information sharing, and police vet? (Required)
    Personal Information
    Homestay mother(Required)
    Homestay father(Required)
    Date of Birth
    Homestay mother(Required)
    Homestay father(Required)
    Occupation: (including time of work)
    Homestay mother(Required)
    Homestay father(Required)
    Phone number(s)(Required)
    Email address(Required)
    Home address(Required)
    Household Details
    Who lives in your household?
    (Please list below: names, DOB, and relationship to you)
    Name(Required)
    DOB(Required)
    Relationship(Required)
    Do you have pets?(Required)
    If yes, please describe(Required)
    Languages spoken at home(Required)
    Religious or cultural practices observed in your home (optional)
    Accommodation Details
    Type of residence(Required)
    If “Other”, please specify
    Bathroom access(Required)
    Internet access available?(Required)
    Hosting Preferences
    Preferred gender of student(Required)
    Preferred age range(Required)
    Length of stay you can accommodate(Required)
    Are you comfortable hosting a student who(Required)
    ・Has limited English proficiency?(Required)
    ・Has dietary restrictions?(Required)
    ・Practices a different religion?(Required)
    Motivation and Experience
    Why are you interested in hosting an international student?(Required)
    Do you have previous hosting experience?(Required)
    If yes, please describe
    References
    Please provide two references (non-family members)(Required)
    Please provide two references (non-family members)
    Name(Required)
    Relationship(Required)
    Phone Number(Required)
    Email(Required)
    Agreement
    I certify that the information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that this form is part of the application process and does not guarantee placement.
    Signature(Required)
    Date(Required)