Some high-decile schools are facing shortfalls of many thousands of dollars from donations and fundraising this year because of the pandemic.
Principals say it's a combination of economic hardship in their communities, uncertainty about running events with more than a hundred people, and their own reluctance to ask for money from families who might be struggling.
They say they will have to cut into their savings and defer spending on equipment and property.
Here's RNZ education correspondent, John Gerritsen.
