Hostel Licensing

🛏️ Do You Need a Hostel Licence?

If you provide residential accommodation to five or more students under 18—especially in connection with a school—you likely need a Hostel Licence under the Education (Hostels) Regulations 2005.

✅ You Need a Licence If:

• You offer overnight accommodation to 5+ students under 18.
• The hostel is linked to an educational provider (school or training centre).
• You operate for gain or reward (i.e., boarding fees are charged).
• Accommodation is not the student’s home (i.e., not with a parent or legal guardian).
• Students stay long-term or regularly, not just temporarily.

📋 Hostel Operator Requirements

Hostels must comply with the Education (Hostels) Regulations 2005, which require:

• 📄 Written policies to show how the hostel supports student wellbeing and learning.
• 🏗️ Minimum standards for:
  • Building structure and facilities
  • Maintenance
  • Emergency management
  • Health and safety
• 📑 Regular reviews by the Education Review Office (ERO) to ensure a safe, supportive environment.
• 💵 Self-funding: Hostels must cover their own running costs (no government funding provided).

🔄 Licence Renewal & Operational Changes

• Licences must be renewed every 3 years.
• Submit your renewal form at least 20 working days before expiry.
• Your hostel will be inspected before licence renewal.
• You must notify the Ministry of any changes to:
  • Ownership
  • Management
  • Premises
  • Operations

💡 Need Help? ABSA Can Support You!

The Aotearoa Boarding Schools Association (ABSA) can guide you through licensing and compliance.

📧 Contact Dee at dee@boarding.org.nz
She can help with:

• Licence application or renewal support
• Preparing for ERO reviews and inspections
• Creating compliant policies and procedures