Hostel licensing function changes#

From 1 September 2026, the Education Review Office (ERO) took 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.

ERO has more information on their 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 ERO, which now acts as 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.

Setting up a new hostel#

Your hostel building needs to be ready to accommodate students to get a licence. Hostels cannot accommodate students without a licence. If you plan to set up a new hostel, review the Hostel Licensing Authorities application form to make sure you have all the information you need.

An advisor from ERO (as the Licensing Authority) will visit your hostel to do an inspection.

Private providers need a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the school they are attached to. The memorandum must show that students boarding at the hostel will be attending the school.

ERO has more information about setting up a school hostel.

Setting up a school hostel – Education Review Office 

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.

Hostels are not funded by us or ERO. Hostel owners must be able to fund running costs from boarding fees or other board funds.

ERO has more information about hostel operations, licence renewals and change of ownership, management, operations or premises.

Running a school hostel – Education Review Office

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