How to Run a Pie Fundraiser in NZ: The Complete Guide
Everything you need to run a successful pie fundraiser in New Zealand. From choosing suppliers to collecting orders and maximising profit - a step-by-step guide for schools and clubs.
Pie fundraisers are one of the most popular and profitable fundraising options in New Zealand. Kiwis love pies - it's that simple. Whether you're a school PTA, sports club, or community group, a pie fundraiser is a reliable way to raise money with minimal hassle.
Why Pie Fundraisers Work So Well
- Everyone buys pies - They're a staple Kiwi food that appeals across all demographics.
- High profit margins - Wholesale pie prices leave a healthy margin for fundraisers.
- Easy to run - Pre-orders mean you only buy what's already sold.
- Freezer-friendly - Families stock up because frozen pies are convenient.
- Repeat customers - Supporters buy pies every time you run a fundraiser.
Step 1: Choose Your Pie Supplier
The right supplier makes or breaks your fundraiser. Look for:
- Quality - Pies that taste great will sell well and bring customers back.
- Variety - Offer mince, steak & cheese, butter chicken, vegetarian, and specialty options.
- Wholesale pricing - You need a margin of at least $2-4 per pie to make it worthwhile.
- Delivery - Can they deliver to your school or club, or do you need to collect?
On Raised, you can browse NZ wholesalers who specialise in fundraising pies and connect with them directly through the platform.
Step 2: Set Up Your Campaign
Go Online
Ditch the paper order forms. An online fundraiser is faster, easier, and reaches more people. With Raised:
- Create your fundraiser in minutes
- Add products from your chosen wholesaler
- Share your unique fundraiser link
- Orders and payments are tracked automatically
Set Your Timeline
A 2-3 week ordering window works best. Long enough for word to spread, short enough to create urgency.
Set a Goal
"Help us raise $2,000 for new sports equipment" is more compelling than "buy some pies." Give supporters a reason to buy.
Step 3: Promote Your Pie Fundraiser
School Newsletter
The number one channel for school fundraisers. Include your link, a photo of the pies, and a clear deadline.
Social Media
Share on your school or club Facebook page, local community groups, and WhatsApp chats. Mobile is where most orders come from.
Word of Mouth
Get students, players, and parents talking about it. Personal recommendations drive the most sales.
Flyers
A simple flyer in school bags or on the clubroom noticeboard catches people who miss the digital channels.
Step 4: Manage Orders and Payment
With Raised, orders come in automatically with payment. You can accept:
- Online payment (credit/debit card)
- Bank transfer (no platform fees)
- Cash (no platform fees)
This flexibility means every family can pay the way that works for them.
Step 5: Distribution Day
Plan Ahead
- Confirm your final order count with the supplier at least a week before delivery.
- Arrange a cool storage area (or freezers) for distribution day.
- Recruit volunteers to help sort and hand out orders.
Keep It Organised
Sort orders by class, team, or surname. Label bags clearly. Have a printed list to check off each pickup.
Communicate
Send a reminder the day before with pickup time, location, and what to bring (e.g., a chilly bin for frozen pies).
How Much Can You Raise?
Here's a realistic example for a school of 300 students:
| Metric | Amount | |--------|--------| | Families who order | 150 (50%) | | Average order | 2 packs ($24) | | Total sales | $3,600 | | Wholesale cost | $2,160 (60%) | | Profit | $1,440 |
Run two pie fundraisers a year and you're looking at nearly $3,000 with minimal effort.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Too many flavour options - Stick to 4-6 varieties. Too much choice slows down ordering.
- No deadline - Always set a clear order cutoff date.
- Paper-only orders - You'll lose sales from families who forget to return the form.
- Poor communication - Send at least 3 reminders: launch, halfway, and final day.
- Not saying thank you - Let supporters know how much you raised and what it's going towards.
Popular Pie Types for NZ Fundraisers
- Mince & Cheese - The undisputed champion.
- Steak & Cheese - Premium option that commands a higher price.
- Butter Chicken - Increasingly popular and a great point of difference.
- Vegetarian / Vegan - Essential for inclusive fundraising.
- Pepper Steak - A solid alternative to the classics.
- Party Pies - Mini pies for kids' lunches. High volume seller.
Ready to Start Your Pie Fundraiser?
Raised connects you with trusted NZ pie wholesalers and gives you everything you need to run your fundraiser online. Set up in minutes, share one link, and watch the orders come in.