International Students
Living In NZ
Student Welfare
The Director of International Students is available to provide help and guidance with both school related and personal aspects of the the student's stay in New Zealand. This guidance includes:
- Choice of subjects.
- Orientation to the school.
- Teaming up new students with a 'buddy' or New Zealand friend.
- Settling in to New Zealande arranging social evenings for International students and their host families.
- Living and studying in New Zealand
When a student first arrives, she will be welcomed, formally enrolled and will be given Orientation booklets about life with a New Zealand family and about life at the college. The contents will be explained, and she will be able to ask questions. She must expect that it will take a little while to settle in and feel at home. Culture shock can sometimes be experienced and International Staff at the college are always willing to listen and help .
New Zealand teachers are friendly and caring towards their students. Students are encouraged to ask questions and to offer ideas. Informal conversations often take place between teachers and students.
Homes
New Zealand homes may be different from those in your own country. Some “Kiwis” live in apartments but most have houses with their own gardens. Homestays are arranged as close to the college as possible. However, most students take a school bus to and from school.
Pets
Many New Zealanders enjoy keeping pets. The most common are cats and dogs and the owners often allow them to come in and out of the house quite freely.
Food
Food may be prepared differently. You will find that New Zealand produce is very fresh. Fresh vegetables, fish, ice cream and New Zealand's fantastic chocolate are favourites with many of our students.
If you are a vegetarian, Hindu or Muslim, you will need to notify the Director of International Students before arrival about any dietary restrictions you may have. You will be sent a Homestay Questionnaire on which you will be able to note any details regarding food. We like to know as much about your preferences as possible so that we can select the most suitable host family for you.
New Zealand families normally eat three meals a day, with a snack or piece of fruit in between. The evening mealtime is often about 6.00pm. Most students bring a cut lunch of sandwiches and fruit to school. There is a canteen at the college where a variety of snacks, and food and drinks can be purchased.
Transport
Most Wellington East students either walk or travel by bus to wherever they want to go. Student monthly concession passes for buses can be purchased at the college office amnd our school ID card can be upgraded to a Snapper card. These can be used Monday to Friday for travel at a reduced rate and can also be purchased from a number of outlets, such as news vendors, in Wellington.
Emergencies
Your host family and the college need to have your mobile phone number and you will be given contact numbers for the Director of International Students and the Homestay Manager in case of need. A representative of the college is available at all times, should a student need help.
Search
