Top Fundraising Ideas for NZ Schools in 2026
Looking for fundraising ideas that actually work for New Zealand schools? We've compiled the top fundraising approaches that consistently deliver results, based on what schools across the country are doing successfully.
Food Fundraisers: The Proven Performers
Food-based fundraisers remain the most popular and successful option for NZ schools. Why? Because supporters get something delicious in return, making it an easy sell.
Pie Fundraisers
Kiwis love their pies, making pie fundraisers a reliable choice. Options like Dad's Pies, Marlow Pies, and Oxford Pies offer quality products that families actually want. The convenience of frozen pies means supporters can stock up and enjoy them whenever suits.
Cookie Dough & Baked Goods
Cookie Time fundraisers are perennial favourites - their frozen cookie dough lets families bake fresh cookies at home. For something different, consider Loaf for artisan bread or Doughboys Bakery for baked goods.
Specialty Foods
Stand out with unique options:
- Pepper Me - Premium spice products with exceptional profit margins
- Westgold Butter - Quality NZ butter everyone uses
- Jones Family Farm - Delicious cheese products
- Nothing Naughty - Healthy snack options
Beyond Food: Alternative Approaches
Not every school wants to run a food fundraiser. Here are some excellent alternatives:
Wine Fundraisers
For parent-focused fundraising, wine works brilliantly. Booster Wine Group and Alana Wines offer quality wines with good margins. These work especially well for events or as add-ons to other fundraisers.
Eco-Friendly Options
Sustainability-focused families appreciate options like:
- My Noke - Vermicast for gardeners
- Ecostore - Household cleaning products
- Good Change - Eco-friendly household items
Practical Products
Some fundraisers offer products families actually need:
- Kings Seeds - Garden seeds
- Teatowels - Custom school tea towels
- Jolly Soles - Quality socks
Event-Based Fundraising
Beyond product sales, consider event-based fundraising:
Fun Runs
A School Fun Run combines fitness with fundraising. Students get sponsored for laps or distance, creating healthy competition while raising funds. These work well as standalone events or combined with existing sports days.
Sweet Treats Events
For one-off events, consider partnering with:
- Krispy Kreme - Iconic doughnuts that sell themselves
- Fresha Donuts - Fresh, local doughnuts
- The Donut Factory - Gourmet doughnut options
Keys to Success
Regardless of which fundraiser you choose, these principles drive success:
- Choose products your community wants - The best fundraiser is one where supporters are excited to buy
- Set clear goals - "We're raising $3,000 for new sports equipment" motivates better than vague targets
- Use online tools - Platforms like Raised eliminate paperwork and make ordering easy
- Communicate regularly - Updates on progress keep momentum going
- Thank supporters - Recognition encourages future participation
Getting Started
Ready to launch your fundraiser? Browse our complete directory of fundraising ideas to find the perfect fit for your school. Filter by category, difficulty, and estimated revenue to narrow down your options.
The best fundraiser is one that matches your school's community, capacity, and goals. Start with something manageable, execute it well, and build from there. Consistent, well-run fundraisers build supporter loyalty that pays dividends for years to come.
