International Department

International students bring an international perspective to classroom discussions, enriching the learning for everyone.  

About Us
Why Onehunga High School?
  • We have been hosting international students for over 30 years and we offer a large range of NCEA subjects.
  • We are renowned for our outstanding Food and Hospitality programmes, Business School and comprehensive ESOL and Performing Arts department.
  • We also have a Science Academy and a Construction and Building School on the school site.
  • Onehunga High School is the only school to offer a stand-alone English Language School for adults (16+) and we welcome parents into this school while their children study at the high school.
  • We run short-study tour programmes working with agents and schools to provide customised tours based on your needs and expectations.
  • We are proud of our dedicated and highly skilled teachers as well as our students who are respectful and responsible lifelong learners. Our friendly buddies (local students) are ready to make sure that each international student receives all the help they need and that they integrate well and smoothly into school life.
  • Onehunga High School leads the way in New Zealand educational achievement

Located on the shores of the Manukau harbour, Onehunga High School is surrounded by many different amenities and natural features. Some of the major attractions are:

  • Cornwall Park the oasis at the heart of Auckland city
  • One Tree Hill; you can get the best panoramic view of Auckland from here
  • Stardome Observatory
  • 10-15 minutes from Rainbows End Theme Park, Butterfly Creek and the Zoo, Ambury Farm and Wildlife Park; pastured animals, lava flows, and much more
  • 10-15 minutes away from Auckland International Airport and the city centre by car
  • Easy and immediate access to all amenities such as cafes, restaurants, shopping centres, swimming pool, sport and recreation centres, bus and train station
We are a multi-cultural and diverse community and everyone is respected and accepted for who they are. This is reflected through our on-site marae "Te Haerenga" (The Journey). Our first goal is to provide a friendly and supportive environment to help you take your English skills to the next level, improve your confidence and gain a proper understanding of NZ culture.  We provide homestay for you if you're coming to NZ alone. To learn more about staying with a homestay family, please click here.Should you wish to live on your own, we can also help you find independent living accommodation; flatting, boarding.
Meet the International Department Staff

We have a team of friendly, professional staff responsible for supporting International students at Onehunga High School. 

Miss Maryam Taghavi

International Students Director

Miss Carla Escobar

International Students Coordinator

Miss Taghavi can help with:
  • Information about the school
  • Visa applications
  • Medical insurance claims
  • Subject choices
  • Issues at school
  • Complaints and concerns
  • Advice and guidance for future studies at university.
Miss Escobar can help with:
  • Homestay questions and support
  • School holiday activities
  • Issues at school
  • Going to the doctor/dentist
  • Transport (school, homestay and airport)