International Students
We currently have openings for 2026 in year 1, 4, 5, 6 and 7.
For more information contact international.students@motuekasteiner.school.nz
The Motueka Steiner School is a small Steiner/ Waldorf School with about 100 students on a farm setting close to the rural town of Motueka. We accept international students into our foundation class to class 7 (ages 6 to 13). Students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
The Motueka Steiner School looks back on a long history of hosting international students from all around the world. A feature of our school is the strong support community that surrounds us. Visiting families do not just come to a school, they join a community.
Join us for two terms, or even better come for a full year. A stay, short or long, allows families to get a taste of our school, our community, and the way of life in NZ. It will also provide children (and their parents) with the best imaginable real life opportunity to improve their English as a second language. You will need to come as a family to care for your children while they are attending our school.
Non-English speaking students usually “buddy-up” with another student from their home country which helps with the transition. We are always surprised how quickly students learn English when supported at home and school. Visiting children are fully integrated into the class, including sport and outdoor activities. There is a deep cultural awareness in our school and we encourage the multi-cultural exchange between children.
There are many opportunities for involvement in the school community: gardens, festivals, building, curriculum, administration, arts and crafts, anthroposophical reading groups, etc.
We have hosted students from many countries, English and non-English speaking. Both the children with their families, and our community have enjoyed this enriching experience and long-term friendships have developed between families. We are very happy to send you reports from previous international student families. Please request information from international.students@motuekasteiner.school.nz
About Motueka
Motueka is a small town at the top of the South Island at the entrance to the popular Abel Tasman National Park. Surrounded by mountain ranges, beautiful bush and blue sea with sandy beaches. The area offers lots of opportunity for recreational outdoor experiences. Motueka is centred in the middle of NZ, therefore providing an excellent base for exploring both Islands.
The closest city is Nelson, 45km southeast of Motueka. The Abel Tasman National Park separates Tasman Bay from Golden Bay, a highly popular holiday spot. Our area is especially attractive with the most sunshine hours in NZ. The mild climate provides for an abundance of agricultural produce and some of the best wine in NZ.
The Motueka lifestyle is relaxed and outdoors focused. There are many sports clubs, dancing, acting, hiking, and singing groups. Three national parks are located nearby, providing an abundance of outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, camping, swimming, kayaking, climbing, mountain biking and much more. Fortunately there is no dangerous wildlife so it is easy to explore the great outdoors.
The Motueka/Tasman/Nelson region has a long history of settlement from Central European countries. Some towns have annual festivals to celebrate their immigrant ancestors.
Enrolment Procedure for International Students
The school year is divided into 4 terms of about 10 weeks each. International Students can join our school at the beginning of each term: In February, April, July or October. The minimum stay is 2 terms.
Please send your initial inquiry to our International Student Liaison by email: international.student@motuekasteiner.school.nz
Guidance and support will be given for the enrolment procedure and you will receive an International Student Information Pack which includes a conditional offer of place and an invoice for your chosen period of attendance.
We will be in close communication to answer all your questions and ensure your needs are met throughout the enrolment process. Please ask us for support if you need to find accommodation, transport, etc.
Immigration requirements
Children with NZ or Australian residency or those with a parent with a NZ work permit or residency can attend the school as domestic students. All others are international students. Our school is registered with the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) to accept international students.
For attendance beyond three months an international student needs a student visa and permit from Immigration NZ. Full details of visa and permit requirements can be viewed at www.immigration.govt.nz.
Fees
International student fees are charged depending on the length of your stay. A school year is made up of four terms. Term 1 starts around February 1st.
International student fees
2025 International student fees - NZD $3530 (inc GST) per term
2026 International student fees - NZD $3700 (inc GST) per term
Administrative fee - NZD$575 (including GST) per student
Students will need to purchase stationery needed for their time at Motueka Steiner School. Additional donations may be requested for activities such as school camps.
Please note that we reserve the right to change fees at our discretion. Annual fee increases will be directly related to increases in the cost of living.
A look into the school year/ a day at school
The school year starts at the beginning of February and ends about a week before Christmas. It is divided into 4 terms, approximate 3 months each, with holidays for 2 weeks in autumn, winter, and spring. The summer holidays last for about 6 weeks, including Christmas.
Each term is accompanied by seasonal festivals which highlights the special character of the yearly rhythms.
* Term 1: Includes the Easter celebration.
* Term 2: Lantern Festival, Matariki celebration
* Term 3: Spring Festival and Michaelmas
* Term 4: Advent
Our community also organises a yearly Spring Fair.
The school day starts at 9am and finishes at 3pm.There is a morning tea break after the main lesson and a half an hour lunch break at 1pm. The children are encouraged to spend these breaks outside and get engaged in team games or similar.
For more information about Motueka Steiner School please click the following links:
- History and Vision
- Character and Community
- Equity Statement
Contact
For all inquiries relating to international students please contact our international student liaison: international.students@motuekasteiner.school.nz
