Accommodation Options for Your Study Abroad in New Zealand: Homestay or Student House?
- Jihane Sato
- Aug 8
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 1
When planning your English studies in New Zealand, where you live matters. The right accommodation can make your experience more immersive, enjoyable, and effective for language learning.
At LSNZ, we offer two popular options for international students:
✅ Homestays – Live with a friendly local family
✅ Student Houses – Enjoy a more independent, social student lifestyle
Let’s explore the benefits of each and help you decide which one suits your goals.
▼CONTENT
What is a Homestay?
A homestay means living with a local New Zealand family in their home.
You eat together, talk together, and live like a member of the family.
This is a great way to practise ‘real English’ every day!
Why Choose a Homestay?
You will speak English with your host family every day.
You will learn real conversation and common New Zealand expressions.
You can experience Kiwi life, including food, weekend activities, and family culture.
Your host family will help you feel safe and welcome, especially if this is your first time abroad.
Meals and Facilities
You get 2 meals per day on weekdays (breakfast and dinner).
And 3 meals per day on weekends (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
You will have your own bedroom
You will share spaces like the living room and washing machine.
Most homes are close to bus stops, so getting to school is easy.
Things to Remember
Every family has different rules, like when to eat and shower.
You can’t choose all your meals, so it’s good to be open to new foods.
You will need to follow the family’s way of life.
A Homestay is Great If You…
Feel nervous about living overseas for the first time.
Want to learn English faster by using it at home.
Want to understand New Zealand culture and daily life.
What is a Student House?
A Student House means living with other international students in a shared house.
It’s fun, independent, and a great way to make new friends from all over the world.
LSNZ’s Student House is only available at our Queenstown campus.
Why Choose a Student House?
You will meet students from many countries and make new friends.
You will speak English every day in a relaxed environment.
You will learn to live more independently, cook your own meals, do laundry, and manage your time.
You will grow to be more confident and organised.
Your Room and What’s Included
Choose a twin room (shared with one person) or a private room.
Bed sheets, duvet, and pillow are provided.
You will share a kitchen, living room, bathrooms, and laundry.
All houses are fully furnished and heated for comfort.
▼Watch a video tour of the LSNZ student accommodation
Things to Remember
You do your own cooking, cleaning, and laundry.
It may take time to adjust if you are used to your family doing these things for you.
You need to be organised and responsible.
A Student House is Great If You…
Want to live more independently.
Want to meet and live with students from different countries.
Already have some English and want to practise every day.
Which One is Right for You?
Here are some tips to help you choose:
Study Length
Short stays (less than 3 months): Homestay is better. It’s easier to settle in and meals are included.
Long stays (3 months or more): Student House is often cheaper and gives you more independence.
Your Goals
Choose homestay if you want a family-style home and strong support.
Choose a student house if you want to live more freely and meet other students.
Study in New Zealand with LSNZ!
LSNZ has schools in Queenstown and Christchurch. We offer two great accommodation choices:
Homestay - Available in both cities.
Student House - Only in Queenstown.
FAQs - Student House and Homestays in New Zealand
How are homestay families chosen?
We visit and check every family to make sure they are friendly, safe, and comfortable.
How can I meet other students in the Student House?
You will share the kitchen and living room with other international students and can make friends easily.
What is inside the Student House?
Our Queenstown Student houses have everything: bedrooms, kitchen, living room, bathrooms, heating, washing machine, and more.
Comments