Hosting an au pair in New Zealand usually costs NZD 1150 p/m in pocket money, plus free room and board. Families must also cover accident insurance (ACC) and often contribute toward transport or language classes.

Au pairs in New Zealand mainly support childcare (school runs, babysitting, homework help, playtime, preparing children’s meals) and light household tasks (tidying up after kids, children’s laundry, setting the table). Heavy housework or acting as a full-time cleaner/nanny is not permitted.

Typical schedules are 25–35 hours per week, with a maximum of around 6 hours per day. Au pairs must have at least one and a half consecutive days off per week, and longer stays should include paid holidays (commonly 4 weeks per 12 months).

A formal au pair agreement is strongly recommended. It should specify duties, hours, pocket money, holidays, insurance, and house rules. Families using agencies must sign a standard contract.

• Age: generally 18–30 years.
• Most au pairs enter on a Working Holiday Visa, which allows short-term work including au pairing.
• Visa rules vary depending on the au pair’s nationality (some countries have quotas or shorter visa periods).
• Maximum stay: usually 6–12 months, depending on visa type.
• Families must provide a private bedroom and meals.

Most New Zealand families find au pairs through specialized agencies, which arrange contracts, insurance, and provide support. Online platforms are also used, but agencies are preferred for handling legal/visa aspects.

If issues arise, families are encouraged to resolve them through open communication. If that fails, either side may terminate the arrangement with notice (often 2 weeks). Agencies can help mediate or arrange a rematch.

New Zealand families typically treat au pairs as extended family members rather than employees. Au pairs are invited to share meals, outings, and cultural activities. The exchange is two-way: au pairs learn about Kiwi culture while sharing their own background with the family and children.