Pre-Arrival Information

CLOTHING
June, July and August is winter time in New Zealand. Temperatures range from around 1°C to 18°C during this time. It can be wet with a good mix of rain, fine days and frosty mornings.

September through to November is spring and the days can be warm. Temperatures during this time ranging between 16°C and 25°C.

December to February is our summer with temperatures of between 20°C and 30°C.

Autumn from March to May is also warm with temperatures mostly in the early 20’s during the day.

Please pack the following essential items required for most International and Outdoor Education trips:

‘MUST HAVE’ GEAR LIST:

  • 100% Waterproof jacket
  • Swimwear
  • Wide brimmed hat
  • Thermal leggings and thermal t-shirts (long and short sleeved)
  • Woollen jersey
  • Gloves (preferable waterproof)
  • Beanie
  • Thermal socks
  • Comfortable walking / tramping shoes or boots
  • Hiking day backpack
  • NOTE: failure to have the correct gear may mean you are unable to join the trip/s.

SCHOOL UNIFORM:
International staff will help you purchase your school uniform on arrival.

Please click here to view examples of acceptable footwear.  We suggest you purchase your school shoes before coming to New Zealand.

Plain white or black socks are acceptable for both boys and girls. No logo’s please.

SCHOOL BALL:
Depending on when you arrive and depart, you may have the opportunity to attend our school ball. Formal dress is required and you may like to bring a dress/formal clothing with you. The cost to attend the ball will be approximately $70 NZD.

AIRPORT ARRIVALS AND CUSTOMS PROCEDURE:
All hiking/outdoor shoes and/or boots must be clean. Please: NO plant, animal or dairy products.

TRANSPORT:
There is a free school bus service operating between Waihi and Waihi Beach before and after school daily.

A taxi service operates (at a cost) during evenings and weekends. This can be a good option if there are a number of students wanting to use the service together, and share the costs.

Our host families are also able to provide a reasonable amount of transport to support you in your extra-curricular and social activities.

These three options above are the only means of transport within and around Waihi / Waihi Beach / Athenree.

Intercity Buses offer services from Waihi to Tauranga (and other destinations). See Intercity

Student Orientation Handbook

All students will have the opportunity to participate in an orientation programme that provides the information and advice necessary for a successful and enjoyable stay at Waihi College.

This is a relaxed and fun programme that includes learning about our school timetable, exploring our school grounds, meeting other new international students, trying on your Waihi College school uniform, discussing school rules and handy hints for getting on with your host family.  Where possible we include existing Waihi College students to join us for part of the orientation programme.

To view a copy of the latest Orientation Booklet, please click here.

To view a copy of the Waihi College School Map, please click here.

To view a copy of the latest Predeparture Information Booklet, please click here.