International

Join our proud Whangārei Boys’ High School whānau and experience a high-quality New Zealand education in a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment.

Life at WBHS

Join our proud Whangārei Boys’ High School whānau and experience a high-quality New Zealand education in a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment.

At WBHS, international students become part of a genuine brotherhood. Our young men learn alongside local students, experience authentic Māori culture, and are challenged to grow academically, culturally, and personally.

Located in Whangārei, the heart of Northland and known as the City of 100 Beaches, our school offers a unique lifestyle. Surrounded by coastline, bush, and open spaces, students enjoy a balanced way of life, supported by modern facilities, caring staff, and the warmth of true Kiwi hospitality.

Living Arrangements

International students at Whangārei Boys’ High School may live in one of the following approved living arrangements:

With a parent: Students may live with their mother or father while studying in New Zealand.
In a school-approved homestay: Students live with a carefully selected and supported homestay family arranged by the school.
With a Designated Caregiver: Students may live with a family member or a close family friend who is well known to the student’s parents and approved by the school. This arrangement is referred to as a Designated Caregiver placement.

All living arrangements are approved by the school and meet New Zealand pastoral care and wellbeing requirements, ensuring students are safe, supported, and well cared for during their time at WBHS.

Permission to leave WRE Form

Enrolment

Beyond the classroom, students have access to elite sports academies, outdoor education, and a wide range of co-curricular opportunities.

Apply to Study

A Day In The Life

A typical day for an international student at Whangārei Boys’ High School begins with travelling to school with their host family, either by walking, bus, or car. On arrival, students join their classes alongside local students and engage in learning across our broad and balanced curriculum.

During breaks, students often spend time in Te Whare Kauika, our international student space, catching up with friends, studying, or taking a moment to relax. Lunchtimes are social and active, with students connecting with classmates, joining sports or activities, or spending time outdoors.

The school day finishes in the afternoon, with many students choosing to stay on for co-curricular activities, sports training, or clubs that match their interests. These opportunities are an important part of building friendships and feeling connected to school life.

In the evenings, students return to their homestay, where they share dinner, spend time with their host family, and complete homework in a supportive home environment before settling in for the night.