How do I find an Au Pair?
The International Au Pair Association (IAPA) and New Zealand Au Pair Association www.nzapa.org.nz both recommend that Host Families always use a reputable and local agency when looking for an Au Pair. The agency can arrange a written contract between the family and Au Pair, can validate references and offer a rematch policy if the initial Au Pair doesn’t work out.
The New Zealand Au Pair Association does not recommend the use of Internet matching services. Au Pairs and Host Families are warned to stay away from internet sites that offer a "quick" placement without doing the hard work (e.g. appropriate reference checks, interviews and police/medical record checks).