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Hostel licensing function changes#
From 1 September 2026, the Education Review Office (ERO) will take responsibility for school hostel licensing, including inspection powers and statutory powers relating to offences. We will retain our role in delivering policy, standard setting and sector stewardship.
For hostel owners, this means bringing review and regulatory functions together, which will make it easier to access information, guidance and regulatory services through a single organisation.
For more information, visit ERO's website:
ERO's incoming regulatory responsibilities – Education Review Office
About school hostels#
Hostels can be run by a school board or privately. You must get a licence from the Hostels Licensing Authority to run a hostel. School hostel owners must provide a safe and positive environment for their ākonga | students.
A hostel is a boarding establishment for school students that:
- charges a boarding fee
- accommodates 5 or more students
- houses students on an ongoing basis.
Running a hostel#
Hostel owners must comply with the Education (Hostels) Regulations 2005. Hostels must have written policies which show how they positively support the wellbeing and learning of their students.
Education (Hostels) Regulations 2005 (SR 2005/332) – New Zealand Legislation
Hostels need to meet minimum operating standards for:
- the building structure and facilities
- maintenance
- emergency management
- health and safety.
The following guidelines set out what you must do to make sure you are meeting your obligations. Note the guidelines will be subject to change following the licensing functions moving to the ERO. Information will be updated as soon as it is available.
Running costs#
We and the ERO do not fund hostels. Hostel owners must be able to fund running costs from boarding fees or other board funds.
Education Review Office reviews#
As well as having responsibilities for hostel licensing, ERO will continue to review hostels as part of this function, to make sure they are safe and supportive learning environments.
School hostels – Education Review Office
Renew a hostel licence#
You need to renew your hostel licence every 3 years. The Hostels Licensing Authority will email you reminders well before the expiry date. You need to submit your licence renewal form 20 working days before the licence expires.
Complete our licence renewal form (subject to change from 1 September 2026). You will need to provide evidence in the form that your hostel is compliant with regulations.
The Hostels Licensing Authority will inspect your hostel before renewing your license to make sure it is operating well. An advisor from ERO will visit the hostel to do the inspection.
Change ownership, management, operations or premises#
If the way your hostel is run changes, you need to let the Hostels Licensing Authority know. Fill out the relevant change of details form (all forms subject to change from 1 September 2026).
Setting up a school hostel
Whakapā
Contact
Contact us if you have questions about running a hostel. Licensing enquiries should be directed to the ERO, but during the transition period can be also sent to the Ministry via the email account below.
