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Evidence · Immigration

Immigration: questions, answers and evidence

Read all 797 original answers and the tables behind the findings. The 27 missing answers are from the China comparison on three platforms.

questions
143
captured answers
797
missing responses
27
answers collected
15–20 October 2026

01

Every question, with its answers

Each question was written as a voter would ask it and went to all four assistants. Some were also asked from a town. Open a question to read every answer to it in full.

Showing 20 of 143 questions

Show all 143

02

The tables behind the study

Every figure on the study page comes from these tables. They are CSV files, which open in any spreadsheet.

  • Complete AI answers

    answers.csv

    One complete original answer, with the question, platform, country setting and migrant profile.

    question_id, surface_code, location_ref, result_id, prompt_id, platform, scan_id, collection_panel, question_text, response_text

    797rows

    Download complete ai answers (CSV)

  • The questions we asked

    question-catalogue.csv

    One question with the migrant profile, wording and purpose.

    question_id, question_version, group_id, case_id, asked_for, output_id, module_ids, category, wording_style, prompt_set, collection_panel, comparison_id, exact_text, distinguishing_facts, stated_facts, tags, status

    143rows

    Download the questions we asked (CSV)

  • Planned questions, platforms and countries

    execution-assignments.csv

    One question, platform and country we planned to collect an answer from.

    question_id, collection_panel, location_name, location_ref, surface, surface_code

    824rows

    Download planned questions, platforms and countries (CSV)

  • The 27 missing answers

    missing-cells.csv

    One expected answer that was not collected.

    question_id, collection_panel, location_name, location_ref, surface, surface_code

    27rows

    Download the 27 missing answers (CSV)

  • Locations named for each migrant profile

    location-by-persona.csv

    How often a place was named in the twelve New Zealand answers for each migrant profile.

    persona, place, answers, denominator, wording_styles, wording_count, surface_count

    342rows

    Download locations named for each migrant profile (CSV)

  • Locations named across question wordings

    location-by-wording.csv

    One profile, platform and place, showing which versions of the question led to an answer naming the place.

    persona, surface, place, answers, denominator, wording_styles

    1,368rows

    Download locations named across question wordings (CSV)

  • Locations named by collection country

    location-by-region.csv

    One place and country setting; the China comparison has nine answers on Google AI Mode only.

    region, place, answers, denominator, surfaces

    304rows

    Download locations named by collection country (CSV)

  • Eight countries on Google AI Mode

    location-ai-mode-eight-regions.csv

    One place and country across the same nine questions on Google AI Mode.

    region, place, answers, denominator

    304rows

    Download eight countries on google ai mode (CSV)

  • Matched local and overseas answers

    matched-region-answer-pairs.csv

    A New Zealand answer alongside the same question and platform using another country setting.

    region, surface, persona, question_id, result_id, nz_result_id, same_place_set, jaccard, added_names, omitted_names

    261rows

    Download matched local and overseas answers (CSV)

  • Topics explicitly raised in the answers

    signals-by-output-platform.csv

    How often selected words and phrases appeared, by topic and platform.

    output, surface, signal, answers, denominator

    1,120rows

    Download topics explicitly raised in the answers (CSV)

  • Topics raised for each migrant profile

    signals-by-persona-output.csv

    How often selected words and phrases appeared, by migrant profile and topic.

    output, persona, signal, answers, denominator

    1,876rows

    Download topics raised for each migrant profile (CSV)

  • Website addresses in captured answers

    captured-answer-links.csv

    Web addresses saved in the original answers, with image and file links identified.

    question_id, result_id, prompt_id, surface, surface_code, region, output, persona, wording, panel, words, raw_page, transcript, url, domain, host_class, image_or_asset

    2,003rows

    Download website addresses in captured answers (CSV)

  • Extra table: links excluding images and files

    captured-links-by-platform.csv

    One platform across the same 143 New Zealand questions. The table excludes image and file links; the main Sources section counts those links.

    surface, denominator, answers_with_links, answers_with_govt_links

    4rows

    Download extra table: links excluding images and files (CSV)

  • Captured answer lengths

    platform-answer-length.csv

    One platform across the same 143 local questions.

    surface, answers, median_words, mean_words

    4rows

    Download captured answer lengths (CSV)

  • Recorded websites by answer

    sources-by-answer.csv

    Each website recorded as a source for an answer, with the page addresses and number of statements linked to the website.

    question_id, result_id, prompt_id, surface, surface_code, region, output, persona, wording, panel, words, raw_page, transcript, domain, publisher, claim_count, source_urls

    1,462rows

    Download recorded websites by answer (CSV)

  • Recorded sources and their original claims

    source-claim-ledger.csv

    Sources attached to individual statements, with the original answer, quotation and source passage.

    narrative_id, claim_id, question_id, result_id, prompt_id, surface, surface_code, region, output, persona, wording, panel, words, raw_page, transcript, domain, url, source_passage, claim_quote, quote_exact

    3,105rows

    Download recorded sources and their original claims (CSV)

  • Answers with sources and answers with links

    source-answer-coverage.csv

    Each New Zealand answer, showing whether sources were recorded and whether the answer text contains a web link.

    question_id, result_id, prompt_id, surface, surface_code, region, output, persona, wording, panel, words, raw_page, transcript, associated_websites, had_sources, literal_url_answer

    572rows

    Download answers with sources and answers with links (CSV)

  • Website publisher classifications

    source-publisher-classification.csv

    Each website, the type of organisation behind the website and the reason for the category. Unconfirmed types remain Other.

    domain, publisher, basis, source

    332rows

    Download website publisher classifications (CSV)

  • Tone toward each place

    place-sentiment-ledger.csv

    One named place in one answer, with the positive, neutral, negative or mixed label, supporting passages and reason. All 108 New Zealand answers about where to live were reviewed.

    result_id, question_id, prompt_id, persona, assistant, region, place, stance, paragraph_numbers, supporting_passages, display_passage, reason, answer_sha256, reviewed_on

    630rows

    Download tone toward each place (CSV)

  • Facts supplied in each question

    prompt-reporting-eligibility.csv

    Every question, with corrected descriptions of the facts stated and limits on interpreting its answers.

    question_id, reviewed_on, prompt_sha256, original_stated_facts, corrected_stated_facts, metadata_changed, destination_explicit, descriptive_counts_included, interpretation_rule

    143rows

    Download facts supplied in each question (CSV)

  • Sources across question styles

    source-wording-incidence.csv

    One website, profile, topic and platform, with answer totals, question styles and the original answer references.

    persona, output, surface, domain, answers_with_source, eligible_answers, wording_styles_with_source, eligible_wording_styles, observed_styles, eligible_styles, answer_ids, by_style

    2,144rows

    Download sources across question styles (CSV)

  • Questions with corrected fact descriptions

    question-catalogue-reviewed.csv

    The unchanged original question text with fact descriptions reviewed on 28 October 2026.

    question_id, question_version, group_id, case_id, asked_for, output_id, module_ids, category, wording_style, prompt_set, collection_panel, comparison_id, exact_text, distinguishing_facts, stated_facts, tags, status

    143rows

    Download questions with corrected fact descriptions (CSV)

  • Statements checked against official sources

    statement-checks.csv

    One checked statement, with its exact passage, verdict, official source, review date and original answer reference.

    check_id, measure_id, question_checked, result_id, prompt_id, question_id, persona, assistant, wording, exact_statement, verdict, what_the_source_says, source_name, source_url, checked_on, answer_sha256

    47rows

    Download statements checked against official sources (CSV)

  • Policy questions covered by the checks

    statement-measures.csv

    One policy question, showing checked statements, original answers and the question wordings represented.

    measure_id, question_checked, checked_statements, distinct_answers, wording_styles_with_checked_assertions, wording_styles, answer_ids, question_ids, scope

    27rows

    Download policy questions covered by the checks (CSV)

Use the question and answer numbers to follow the evidence between tables. Locations named in warnings and comparisons count. Sources attached to an answer and web links in the answer text are counted separately.

03

The reviewed evidence

We read all 108 New Zealand answers about where to live to assess the tone toward each named place. A separate selection of 41 answers explores practical advice and contrasts across topics. The original policy checks were made on 22 October and expanded on 28 October 2026; verdicts cover selected statements, not every answer.

ChatGPT · New Zealand country setting

what to arrange before moving to New Zealand at 17 for high school and university with parents overseas funding me

Moving to New Zealand at 17 for high school and then university, with your parents living overseas and paying your expenses, is very manageable if you plan it properly. The most important things are to arrange your visa, school enrolment, accommodation, finances, healthcare, and legal support before you arrive.

Because you will still be a minor when you move, you need to plan for more than an ordinary international student would. You need a reliable adult or approved arrangement in New Zealand, a clear way to access money, and a plan for what happens if you get sick or have an emergency.

Your New Zealand moving checklist

1. Visa and immigration

Top priority

  • Confirm which student visa you need for your age, school and intended length of stay.
  • Check the requirements for international students under 18, including accommodation and welfare.
  • Prepare your passport, school offer, evidence of funds and any required medical or police documents.
  • Check whether your visa permits you to study only at a particular school and whether you can work.
  • Make a plan for extending or changing your visa when you progress to university.

Official starting point: Immigration New Zealand

2. High school enrolment

  • Choose a school that accepts international students of your age and academic level.
  • Obtain a written offer of place and confirm the tuition fees and payment deadlines.
  • Check which qualification you will study: NCEA, Cambridge International, or the International Baccalaureate, if offered.
  • Ask which subjects you need for your intended university degree.
  • Request details about orientation, English-language support, school holidays and academic records.

Search through the Education New Zealand website.

3. Accommodation and adult supervision

  • Decide whether you will live with an approved homestay family, a parent or a suitable relative, or in another arrangement accepted by your school and immigration rules.
  • Get written confirmation of who is responsible for your accommodation and welfare.
  • Confirm meals, transport, internet, laundry, curfews and what happens during school holidays.
  • Identify an emergency contact who can help you in person.
  • Do not sign a private rental agreement or pay a deposit before checking the property, contract and your eligibility to live there.

Important: At 17, do not assume that you can independently rent any property or live unsupervised. Your school and visa conditions may determine which arrangements are acceptable.

4. Money and parental funding

  • Ask your parents to prepare proof that they can pay your tuition and living costs.
  • Obtain bank statements and any required sponsorship or financial undertaking documents.
  • Confirm how money will reach you: international transfers to your New Zealand bank account, for example.
  • Make a monthly budget for accommodation, food, transport, phone, school costs and personal expenses.
  • Keep an emergency reserve separate from your regular spending money.
  • Agree with your parents on how much they will transfer, when they will transfer it, and what happens if a transfer is delayed.

Do not rely on getting a part-time job to cover essential expenses. Your visa may restrict employment, and school must remain your priority.

5. Healthcare and insurance

  • Arrange insurance that meets your student visa and education provider's requirements for the full period of study.
  • Check whether pre-existing conditions, prescriptions, dental care and emergency treatment are covered.
  • Bring copies of vaccination records, prescriptions and relevant medical documents.
  • Find out how to register with a local GP once you know where you will live.
  • Understand how to access after-hours medical care and emergency services.

Official information: Study with New Zealand — student support.

6. University pathway

  • Research university entry requirements for your intended degree and qualification.
  • Check whether your high school subjects and grades meet those requirements.
  • Budget for international university tuition, which may be substantially different from domestic fees.
  • Check the visa you would need for university and how to transition from your school visa.
  • Keep school transcripts, exam certificates, identification and English-language test results if required.

Start with Study with New Zealand and the official websites of universities you are considering.

7. How much money should your parents prepare?

Immigration New Zealand currently lists the following minimum living-cost funds for student visa applications. These are visa evidence requirements, not a guarantee that the money will cover your actual lifestyle. Tuition and outward travel are additional. Student fund requirements :: Immigration New ZealandTuition fees and cost of living

Secondary school · Years 1–13

NZ$17,000

Per year for living costs

University or other tertiary study

NZ$20,000

Per year for living costs

Your parents can generally provide evidence of funds from overseas. Immigration New Zealand explains that a third party outside New Zealand may use a financial undertaking and supporting bank evidence. The money must be genuinely available for your expenses. Student fund requirements :: Immigration New Zealand

Official source: Student fund requirements — Immigration New Zealand

For budgeting, ask your parents to plan for these categories:

Expense What to include
Education School tuition, levies, uniforms, books, exam fees
Accommodation Homestay or hostel fees, meals, holiday accommodation
Daily living Phone, toiletries, clothing, personal spending
Transport Airport transfers, public transport and school travel
Health Insurance premiums, prescriptions and possible uncovered costs
Travel Flights to and from New Zealand
Emergencies Unexpected travel, urgent accommodation or delayed transfers
University transition Application fees, new visa, university tuition and living costs

University living costs can be higher than the minimum visa amount, depending on where you study and your accommodation. Tuition fees and cost of living

8. Banking and managing money independently

Before leaving your home country, arrange a practical system with your parents.

  • Banking: Ask a New Zealand bank what documents it requires to open an account at age 17. Requirements can vary, and you may need parental consent or additional identity documents.
  • International transfers: Confirm transfer fees, exchange rates, transfer times and what happens if your parents' bank flags a payment.
  • Payment cards: Bring a card that works internationally and check overseas transaction fees.
  • Emergency access: Keep a backup payment method and emergency funds accessible if your main card is lost.
  • Spending plan: Agree on a regular allowance and track your spending each month.
  • Documents: Keep copies of your passport, visa, insurance policy, school offer and parents' contact details in a secure place.

You should also agree with your parents on who can authorise larger purchases, how you will handle unexpected expenses and how you will contact them if you cannot access your money.

9. Legal and practical arrangements while you're 17

This is an especially important part of your move.

  • Ask your parents to prepare a signed consent letter for your travel and stay, along with copies of their identification and contact details, as appropriate.
  • Confirm whether the school needs a designated caregiver, homestay agreement, guardianship documentation or additional parental consent.
  • Find out who can help you with medical consent, school decisions and emergencies while your parents are overseas.
  • Check the rules for signing contracts, renting accommodation and opening bank accounts as a minor.
  • Keep contact details for your school's international student adviser and accommodation coordinator.
  • Discuss what happens if your homestay breaks down, you become ill, or you need to return home unexpectedly.

New Zealand's international learner welfare rules specifically address safe accommodation and care arrangements for students aged 10–17. Ask the school to confirm your exact requirements before you commit. Rules for approved education providers :: Immigration New ZealandOffering a place to a student :: Immigration New Zealand

10. Documents to prepare before flying

Keep originals where needed and secure digital copies that you and your parents can access.

Pre-departure document checklist

0/20 ready

Identity and immigration

Valid passport

Student visa approval and visa conditions

Birth certificate and certified translation if needed

Passport-size photos if required

Medical or police documents if requested

Education

School offer and enrolment confirmation

Academic transcripts and certificates

English-language results if required

Tuition payment receipts

Subject choices and university pathway information

Parents and funding

Parents’ identification and contact details

Financial undertaking or sponsorship documents, if applicable

Recent bank statements and evidence of funds

Parental consent and caregiver documents requested by the school

Emergency contacts and agreed financial plan

Arrival and daily life

Accommodation confirmation and arrival instructions

Medical and travel insurance documents

Flight details and airport pickup plan

Prescription details and vaccination records

Banking arrangements and backup payment card

Copy checklistReset

11. A realistic timeline

  1. 6–12 months before departure, if possible

    Research schools, subjects, fees, university pathways and accommodation. Check the relevant visa requirements.

  2. 3–6 months before departure

    Apply to schools, obtain an offer, arrange your accommodation and prepare evidence of parental funding. Start the visa application early; Immigration New Zealand recommends applying for a Fee Paying Student Visa at least three months before travel. Fee Paying Student Visa » Immigration New Zealand

  3. 1–3 months before departure

    Finalise visa and insurance arrangements, confirm the accommodation and airport pickup, and organise banking and parental consent documents.

  4. 1–2 weeks before departure

    Reconfirm your flight, accommodation, school start date and emergency contacts. Pack your documents, medication and essential items.

  5. Your first week in New Zealand

    Meet your caregiver or homestay family, attend school orientation, learn your transport route, arrange your phone and banking, and save emergency numbers. Call 111 for an emergency involving police, fire or ambulance. 111 emergency service

12. The three things to clarify first

The best plan depends on your exact circumstances, especially because you will be 17 and your parents will remain overseas.

Answer what you know — you can leave anything blank.

With these details, I can narrow this down to the right visa route, the documents your parents need to prepare overseas, the accommodation arrangements required at 17, and a more realistic budget for your high school years and university transition.

Ask anything

ChatGPT can make mistakes. Check important info.

Captured 15–20 October 2026

Gemini · New Zealand country setting

what to arrange before moving to New Zealand at 17 for high school and university with parents overseas funding me

Moving to New Zealand at 17 as an international student funded by parents overseas requires careful planning across immigration, education, finance, and legal guardianship. Because you are under 18 (a minor in New Zealand), specific legal and structural arrangements must be finalized before you arrive.

Here is a comprehensive checklist of what you and your family need to arrange.

1. Immigration and Visas

Before booking flights or enrolling, you must secure the correct student visa through Immigration New Zealand (INZ).

  • Pathway Student Visa or Fee-Paying Student Visa: Since you intend to transition from high school to university, you can apply for a Pathway Student Visa (which can cover up to five years of consecutive study across different approved institutions) or separate visas for each phase.
  • Evidence of Financial Support: Because your parents are funding you, INZ requires formal proof that they have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees in full for the first year (or evidence of an approved scholarship/loan) plus living expenses (currently set by INZ at NZD $20,000 per year for tertiary/high school students).
  • Guarantor / Maintenance Guarantee: Your parents will need to complete financial undertaking forms proving they can consistently transfer funds to support your living costs, accommodation, and insurance.

2. Guardianship and Living Arrangements (Under-18 Legal Requirements)

New Zealand immigration and school boards have strict rules for international students under 18 years old.

  • Designated Caregiver or Homestay: If your parents are overseas and you do not have a legal parent or court-appointed guardian living in New Zealand with you, you cannot live entirely on your own.
  • School-Approved Accommodation: High schools will require you to live in either:
    • A school-managed homestay family.
    • A Designated Caregiver arrangement (someone known to your family, approved by the school, who undergoes police vetting).
  • University Transition (Turning 18): Once you turn 18 during your studies, these restrictions lift, but you will need to plan your transition to university halls of residence or private flatting.

3. Financial and Banking Setup

Managing international funds smoothly is critical to avoiding high wire-transfer fees and currency conversion losses.

  • New Zealand Bank Account: Once you arrive (or via international student desks at major NZ banks like ANZ, ASB, BNZ, or Westpac beforehand if permitted), you will need a local bank account. To open one, you will need your passport, student visa, proof of address (or homestay agreement), and your Tax File Number (IRD number) if you work later on.
  • International Money Transfers (IMT): Set up a reliable transfer service (such as Wise, OFX, or bank-to-bank SWIFT transfers) so your parents can send living allowances regularly. Factor in exchange rate fluctuations and international transfer fees.
  • Budgeting for Upfront Costs: Ensure your parents have provisioned for initial high-cost items: school uniforms, textbooks, laptop, bond for accommodation, winter clothing, and settling-in expenses.

4. Healthcare and Insurance

  • Mandatory Medical Insurance: International students in New Zealand must have compliant travel and medical insurance for the entire duration of their student visa. Your high school or university will usually bundle this into your fees or require proof of an approved provider (such as Uni-Care or OrbitProtect) before issuing an offer of place.
  • Public Healthcare Exclusions: As an international student, you are generally not eligible for publicly funded health services except for accident-related care via ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation). Private insurance covers doctor visits, prescriptions, and emergency care.

5. Academic Planning (High School to University)

  • High School Qualifications: Ensure the high school you choose offers the NCEA (National Certificate of Educational Achievement), Cambridge International (CIE), or the International Baccalaureate (IB).
  • University Entrance (UE): Talk to the high school careers advisor early to map out your subject choices. To transition smoothly to a New Zealand university (like the University of Auckland, University of Otago, etc.), you must meet specific University Entrance literacy, numeracy, and subject credit requirements.
  • Conditional Offers & English Proficiency: If English is an additional language, universities may require proof of English proficiency (such as IELTS or TOEFL) unless you complete your final years of high school in New Zealand.

📅 Chronological Action Timeline

Timeline Milestone / Action Item
12 Months Out Research high schools and universities; check international fee structures and entry requirements.
9 Months Out Secure admission offers from the high school; organize mandatory medical insurance.
6 Months Out Apply for the Student Visa through INZ; finalize homestay or designated caregiver arrangements with the school.
3 Months Out Plan international fund transfers with your parents; purchase flights and seasonal clothing.
1 Month Out Arrive in New Zealand, settle into your accommodation, attend school orientation, and open a local bank account.
Ask Gemini

Gemini is AI and can make mistakes.

Captured 15–20 October 2026

Google AI Mode · New Zealand country setting

what to arrange before moving to New Zealand at 17 for high school and university with parents overseas funding me

You must officially arrange a Student Visa, a Code-compliant accommodation solution approved for under-18 students, comprehensive international student health insurance, and a legal Designated Caregiver or school-supervised homestay before moving to New Zealand at 17. Because you will be under 18 and your parents are overseas, New Zealand immigration and educational authorities legally require strict pastoral care arrangements until you turn 18.

1. Immigration and Legal Requirements

  • Student Visa: Apply for a Fee-Paying Student Visa via Immigration New Zealand. You will need an Offer of Place from your high school or tertiary institution and documented proof of financial support from your parents.

  • Under-18 Pastoral Care Compliance: Under New Zealand's education code, if you are under 18 and not living with your parents, you cannot live independently. Your accommodation must be approved by your education provider. [Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington]

  • Designated Caregiver or Homestay: Your parents must formally appoint a Designated Caregiver (a relative or close family friend living in New Zealand) who undergoes police vetting and a property check, OR your school/university must place you in an approved homestay or managed university hall of residence. [Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington]

2. Housing and Living Arrangements

  • Approved Accommodation Contract: Secure a placement in a school/university-approved residence or homestay. Many university halls and high schools have specialized under-18 supervision floors or policies. [Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington]

  • Guardianship / Emergency Authority: Set up a formal power of attorney or legal agreement giving your designated local caregiver or school director the authority to make emergency medical and educational decisions on your parents' behalf while they are overseas.

3. Finances and Funding

  • International Tuition and Living Fee Payments: Arrange an international payment mechanism (such as via Immigration-approved banking transfer services) to pay your tuition fees and compulsory living costs before visa approval.

  • Local Bank Account: Research how to open a New Zealand bank account remotely or immediately upon arrival. Since you are under 18, setting up a standard debit account may require parental identification verification or approval from your local caregiver.

  • Access to Funds: Ensure your parents set up a reliable recurring international money transfer method to cover rent, groceries, transport, and pocket money.

4. Health and Insurance

  • Mandatory Medical Insurance: Purchase an [International Student Health Insurance](studylink.govt.nz or provider specific) policy that meets New Zealand code requirements for international students. Public healthcare (113 Healthline / hospital care) is not fully free for temporary international visa holders under 18 unless covered by specific bilateral agreements or private insurance.

If you'd like to narrow this down, please tell me:

  • Are you finishing your final year of high school in New Zealand first, or starting right at a university foundation/undergraduate level?
  • Do you already have a relative or family friend in New Zealand who can act as your local caregiver?
Ask anything

Captured 15–20 October 2026

AI Overviews · New Zealand country setting

what to arrange before moving to New Zealand at 17 for high school and university with parents overseas funding me

AI Overview

Moving to New Zealand as an international student at 17 is an exciting step, but because you are legally under 18 , there are unique welfare, legal, and financial frameworks you must establish before you board your flight.

Since you are transitioning from high school to university with your parents funding you from overseas, you will need to organize specific visas, approved living arrangements, and verified financial channels.

1. Choose Your Visas and Handle the Age 17 Police Check

Because you are changing institutions from high school to university, you have a couple of options for your student visa:

  • The Pathway Student Visa: If your high school and chosen university are part of the approved pathway program, you can apply for a single . This covers up to three consecutive courses over a period of up to 5 years without needing to renew your visa when you finish high school.
  • Fee-Paying Student Visa: Alternatively, you can apply for a standard Fee Paying Student Visa for high school first, and then apply for a new one once you receive your university unconditional Offer of Place.
  • ⚠️ Critical Requirement at 17: Immigration New Zealand requires a Police Certificate/Clearance for applicants aged 17 or older if you plan to stay in the country for 24 months or longer. You must obtain this from your home country before applying.

2. Arrange Code-Compliant Accommodation

Under New Zealand law, education providers must comply with the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice. Because you are under 18, your school must vet and approve where you live before you can secure your visa. You cannot simply rent an independent apartment. Your primary options are:

  • School Hostel / Hall of Residence: Regulated student dormitories managed directly by your high school or university.
  • Homestay: Living with an approved New Zealand family, which is organized and monitored by your school’s international student coordinator.
  • Designated Caregiver: If your parents want you to live with a specific relative or close family friend who lives in New Zealand, your parents must officially designate them, and the school must visit and approve the home.

3. Structure Your Overseas Funding & NZ Banking

Your parents must prove they can support you financially to satisfy Immigration New Zealand's student visa criteria.

  • Proof of Funds: You must show evidence of NZ$20,000 per year (or NZ$1,667 per month) for living costs, plus enough money to cover your return flight home and your full tuition fees.
  • Funds Transfer Scheme (FTS): If you are moving from certain countries (such as India, China, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, or Vietnam), Immigration New Zealand may require or highly recommend using the ANZ Bank Funds Transfer Scheme. This allows your parents to securely deposit your living expenses into an NZ account, which then releases a fixed monthly allowance to you once you arrive.
  • Open an Account Remotely: Most major New Zealand banks (like ANZ, ASB, or Westpac) allow international students to open an account online before leaving home. You can transfer money into it, but it will be frozen for withdrawals until you physically arrive at a branch in New Zealand with your passport to activate it.

4. Purchase Compulsory Health and Travel Insurance

As an international student, you are not eligible for publicly funded healthcare in New Zealand.

  • Having comprehensive medical and travel insurance is a mandatory visa condition from the day you land to the day you leave.
  • Your education provider will usually offer to automatically arrange and bill you for an approved policy (such as Studentsafe) when you enroll. If you choose to buy your own, it must strictly comply with the Code of Practice and cover medical care, hospital stays, and emergency repatriation.

5. Prepare for Arrival Logistics

  • Pack for the Climate: New Zealand weather is famously variable and maritime. Bring high-quality windproof and waterproof clothing, alongside layers.
  • Biosecurity Rules: New Zealand has incredibly strict border quarantine laws to protect its ecosystem. You must declare all food, wooden items, outdoor sports gear, or dirty footwear upon arrival, or face immediate fines.
  • Get an IRD Number: Once you arrive and turn 18, you might want to work part-time (student visas typically allow up to 20 hours a week). To do this, you will need to apply online for an IRD (Inland Revenue Department) number so you are taxed correctly.

To give you the most accurate advice, what country are you moving from , and do you already know which high school or university you will be attending?

Ask anything

Captured 15–20 October 2026