Back to school costs can add up quickly. If you’re looking for a bit of extra support, here are some of the options available:

It’s free to go to a state school, but the school can ask for donations towards their running costs. If you’ve paid school donations, you can apply for a tax credit through Inland Revenue NZ: https://bit.ly/4jCiBQ1

You may be eligible for a loan from the Ministry of Social Development NZ to help with school uniforms or stationery: https://bit.ly/4jI7DIW

If you’re caring for someone else’s child, you may be able to get the School and Year Start-up Payment. This money doesn’t need to be paid back: https://bit.ly/49zP84B

Variety New Zealand offer one-off grants and ongoing sponsorship to help cover the cost of things your child needs to stay healthy, to go to school and to take part in their community: https://bit.ly/4sFWInc

The J R McKenzie Youth Education Fund helps when difficult circumstances like sickness or economic hardship impact a family’s ability to meet education costs: https://bit.ly/49mntWe

We also recommend checking with your child’s school or your local Citizens Advice Bureau NZ to find out what support is available in your community. For example, schools may have a second-hand uniform shop.

There are also local charities and initiatives that may be able to help. For example, in Ōtautahi Christchurch, the Christchurch City Mission has a Back to School Programme to help with uniform or stationery costs: https://bit.ly/4sFYa98