The school holidays have passed all too quickly and in just a few days your tamaiti will be heading back through the kura gates. Here are some good places to pick up start of term supplies.

Shoes

The Warehouse basics brand offers durable black school shoes and sandals from as little as $12 a pair, and sports shoes for $15-$20.

Uniforms

www.preloveduniforms.co.nz is a great site where you can buy previously used uniforms in good condition, and also sell the uniform your child has outgrown.

Bags

Office Max are offering their 0800 What's Up 'colour me in' bag for just $9.99, with $5 from each sale donated to Banardos. 0800 what's up is a free and confidential telephone service for children to speak to qualified counsellor's about 'what's up' in their life.

If you can't afford your child's essential school supplies or out of school care so you can work, you might be eligible for help. Visit www.education.govt.nz or speak to Family Start Manukau to find out about subsidies.