Homestay Rules: The Basics
Each homestay may have their own rules, but there are some things that are universal in NZ homestays:
- It is expected that teenagers contribute to the family chores, so you should expect to do tasks such as clearing the table, helping with cooking or the dishes etc.
- Please keep your own room tidy, make your bed each morning and change your sheets regularly.
- Your homestay family will provide you with a warm room, a heater and maybe an electric blanket.
- ALWAYS turn all heating off when you turn out the light for bed and before you come to school or leave the house. Many house fires in NZ are caused by heaters left on for too long
- If you have an electric blanket, only turn it on for 20 minutes before you go to bed - never go to sleep with the electric blanket on, that is a major fire risk.
- It's extremely unsafe to dry wet clothes or towels on or near a heater - discuss where the best place to dry your clothes is. In NZ, the best place is often outside in the air, which may be different to your home country.
- Ask your homestay when is the best time to shower each day. One shower per day is usual. Limit your time in the shower to 10 minutes. If you are sharing the bathroom with the rest of the homestay family, please remember to limit your time in the bathroom
- It is important on nights before school that you go to bed at a reasonable time - 10:30 should be around when you turn the lights off.
- Basic toiletries (Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toilet paper) will be supplied, but if you want special products you will need to pay for them from your own pocket money
- Your homestay contract has specific details about rules you must follow, for example you cannot dye your hair at home, you must ventilate (air) your room daily, that the homestay is not a hotel - please read what you have already agreed to do, and if you're unsure about a rule, ask!
- You will have medical insurance for emergencies, but this does not cover the optometrist or dental checkups.
- It is important that you don't lend or borrow money. credit cards or cell phones.