International Student Fees and Costs at Wakatipu High School
All figures are in New Zealand dollars (NZD) and include GST. The information below outlines expected costs, including tuition, accommodation, uniform, and course fees.
Fee Policies and Estimates
- Fee Adjustments: The tuition fees detailed below provide an estimate of costs for 2026, 2027, and 2028, and are subject to change. Fees are reviewed annually by the Board of Trustees.
- Calendar Year Rates: Fees apply strictly to the calendar year (January–December) in which your course begins. If your studies extend into a subsequent calendar year, the updated fee rate for that year will apply.
Enrolment Conditions
- Intakes: Wakatipu High School accepts international students for a minimum of two terms. Programmes must start at the beginning of either Term 1 (January) or Term 3 (July).
- NCEA Enrolment: In line with school policy, all international students attending WHS for more than six months must enrol in the NCEA.
- English Language Requirement: To ensure you can fully participate and succeed in our mainstream curriculum, a high-intermediate level of English proficiency is required. This will be naturally assessed during the video call interview as part of your application process.
Medical and Travel Insurance Requirement
The New Zealand Ministry of Education requires all international students to hold approved medical and travel insurance for the entire duration of their stay in New Zealand. Our International Team is happy to assist you in arranging an approved policy.
Please refer to the International Student Contract of Enrolment for full terms and conditions, including refund policy.
We've put together this document to help you understand our Homestay Accommodation fees
2026 Tuition Fees
Administration fee:
For student enrolling for the first time
NZ$600
Tuition fee (school tuition and class textbooks):
One year
Three terms
One semester/two terms (irrespective of which terms)
NZ$25,500
NZ$20,400
NZ$15,300
Bank fee:
Charged for each payment made by bank transfer
NZ$30
Accommodation and Miscellaneous
Homestay:
Placement fee
NZ$220
Accommodation:
Accommodation covers three meals a day for seven days a week regardless of holiday or school time. A half week is calculated up to a full week.
NZ$450
per week
Uniform:
New, for one set
NZ$700
approx.
Insurance:
Insurance is compulsory. We can assist with this. Policies purchased off-shore must meet the Ministry of Education's criteria and include an English copy for school records
NZ$699
approx.
per year
Homestay change fee:
Charged to cover costs associated with homestay change made to accommodate student preferences.
NZ$350
Courses and fees
Examination fee:
National Certificates of Educational Achievement (NCEA)
This fee is required for international students in Years 11-13 studying at WHS for more than two terms.
NZ$383.30
Art: Design / Photography / Painting:
Course Fee - determined by student course selection and Year level
from NZ$95
to NZ$140
Food Technology:
Course fee - determined by student course selection and Year level
from NZ$250
Drama:
Course fee - determined by student course selection
from NZ$100
Hard Materials Technology:
Course fee - determined by student course selection and year level
from NZ$140 to NZ$170
Hospitality:
Course Fee - determined by student course selection and Year level
from NZ$250
Outdoor Education:
Course fee - determined by student course selection
NZ$550
Performing Arts:
Course fee - determined by student course selection
from NZ$100
Physical Education:
Course fee - determined by student course selection
from NZ$50 to NZ$100
Tourism:
Course fee - determined by student course selection
from NZ$116 to NZ$144
Trade Skills:
Course fee - determined by student course selection
from NZ$150
School camps, subject course trips, sports, and extracurricular activities:
Will vary depending on camp, trip type, sport and activity
Varies
