Accommodation
Safe, welcoming accommodation where students feel at home, with homestay and boarding house options available
Homestay
Living in a homestay gives international students the opportunity to experience everyday life in New Zealand while feeling safe, supported, and part of a family.
Our carefully selected host families provide a warm and welcoming environment, where students are included in family life and supported as they adjust to living and studying in a new country.
Students are provided with daily breakfast and dinner, a packed school lunch, and a comfortable bedroom, and are encouraged to take part in family routines and activities.
Homestay is also one of the best ways for students to improve their English naturally, while experiencing Kiwi culture and building strong, lasting relationships.
All homestay families are carefully vetted and regularly monitored, with ongoing support from our International Team to ensure each student is happy and well cared for.
Learn More:
For full details about homestay expectations, guidelines, and support, please refer to our Homestay Handbook below.
Boarding Houses
Our boarding houses offer a safe, structured, and supportive environment where students are cared for both academically and personally.
Located just a 5–10 minute walk from the college, the boarding houses provide modern, purpose-built accommodation. Students stay in twin-share rooms, helping build friendships and a strong sense of community.
Boarders follow a structured daily routine that includes supervised study sessions (prep), regular meal times, and organised activities, supporting both academic success and wellbeing. Experienced staff are on-site to provide guidance, care, and pastoral support.
Students are provided with breakfast, packed school lunches, dinner, and supper, along with access to shared living spaces and laundry facilities.
Boarding life also includes a range of after-school and weekend activities, with opportunities to get involved in sports, outings, and social events. Students are encouraged to stay active, connect with others, and make the most of their time at Garin.
The boarding house environment promotes independence, responsibility, and a strong sense of belonging, helping students grow in confidence while being part of a supportive community.
Learn More:
For full details about hostel life, routines, and policies, please visit the Garin College Boarding webpage or refer to our Boarding Hostel Handbook below.
Testimonials
“I had an awesome host family — they became like my second family and made me feel at home.”
— Gwen, Germany
“I loved my homestay and always felt included and will forever have a second family here in Nelson”
— Sophia, Germany
“Everyone was really nice, kind, and helpful — I felt welcomed and safe.”
— Jonna, Germany
“She felt so well cared for by her host family and says she couldn't have imagined a better host family! Thank you very much for choosing this family for [her]!”
— German Parents