International Students

We offer you the chance to study in paradise and explore New Zealand.

International Student Information

Whether you want to achieve academic success, improve your English language skills or learn to scuba dive and kayak in the Pacific Ocean, Mercury Bay offers it all.

International Students become an integral part of our school community, participating in full academic, sporting and cultural programmes.

English Language

International Students will have their level of English assessed prior to enrolment. Course and class placement are conditional on English proficiency. This could be after school or holiday English classes at a local language school funded by the student. Entry into senior school must be at least intermediate level.

ELA (English Language) classes will be provided, dependent on numbers, for senior students.

Pastoral Care

At our school, student well-being is paramount. We support every learner through a dedicated pastoral team that includes Learning Coaches, Deans, a Counsellor, and our International Student Director.

While we provide extensive pastoral care within the school, we want to be transparent that specialist external services (such as psychological support) are not easily accessible in our local community. We encourage families to discuss any specific high-level support needs with us prior to enrolment.

Homestays

To guarantee a safe and immersive experience in Whitianga, we do not permit flatting. Instead, we offer quality homestays within Mercury Bay, where we carefully match international students with welcoming families to ensure an enriching experience..

School Year

School hours and terms for Area Schools are generally the same as for Secondary Schools.

As the academic year concludes, our Year 11, 12, and 13 students focus on exam preparation in Term 3 before entering study leave in Term 4. This provides a unique opportunity for our International students to swap the classroom for adventure by taking part in our exciting International Activities Programme.

Term Dates & Schedule

Code of Practice

Mercury Bay Area School is a signatory to the "Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students" published by the NZQA. All procedures relating to the enrolment of International Students are carried out in accordance with the Code. Copies of the Code are available on request from MBAS or from the New Zealand NZQA website

Code of Practice

International Student Fees

The cost of study, programmes and living expenses at Mercury Bay Area School.

We are fully booked for 2026 and January 2027 intake.

We are still accepting applications for July 2027.

We are unable to accept any students with cat allergies

Study & Living Fees

Popular International Student Courses

Marine Academy

Learn to dive with professional training and explore underwater NZ as part of your school education.

Qualifications

Open Water Diver
Advanced Open Water Diver
Rescue Diver
NCEA credits

Find out more

Outdoor Education

Take adventure as a subject! Gain physical and technical skills with NCEA credits.

Courses

Ocean Kayaking
Bush Craft
Mountain Biking
Surfing
Outdoor Survival
Rock Climbing

Find out more

Equine Studies

For the student who loves everything about horses. Gain skills in animal welfare, riding and management.

Standards & Assessments

Equine standards in conjunction with a specialised Equine tutor.
Industry based practical and theory assessments.

Find out more

International Student Experiences

Who wouldn't want to study in our stunning environment? Mercury Bay Area School welcomes international students from around the world to participate in the life of the school and to enjoy our unique learning programmes.

Read what our students say

Enrolment Procedures for International Students

Complete the application form.
Provide the documents listed.
The written statement should be a statement by the student about him/herself, his/her interests and hobbies.
Upon receipt of the application, we evaluate the application and send an offer of place along with an invoice.
When the invoice is paid, we send a Confirmation of Place letter and a receipt. You need these two documents to apply to the nearest New Zealand Embassy for a student visa.
The visa application form is generally on the website of the Embassy.
Students are provided with a full orientation programme on arrival.

International Student Application Form

For more information about becoming a international student at Mercury Bay Area School, please contact the International Director.

MBAS International Director

Years