What is the ruling on studying the English language in New Zealand or other countries for a month or two while staying with a family?

The general rule is that it is not permissible to reside among polytheists, based on the saying of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him: "I am free of any Muslim who resides among polytheists."

However, scholars have permitted travel to their lands for a need, such as trade, seeking knowledge, medical treatment, or inviting to Allah, provided that one adheres to the legitimate Islamic guidelines.

As for traveling merely to study English or other languages, it does not justify traveling to lands of disbelief, because it is possible to study these languages in Muslim countries.

Moreover, it is not permissible to reside with a family that does not adhere to the rulings and guidelines of Islamic law, due to the inability to avoid seeing unveiled women and the lack of security from temptation.

Therefore, it is not permissible to travel to those countries solely to study a language, nor to reside with a family that does not adhere to the rulings of Islamic law.