But it was a different story at George Street Normal School in Dunedin yesterday when the Otago Regional Rescue Helicopter landed in the playground to drop off Santa Claus and several big boxes of ice blocks.
About 390 pupils were jumping with joy and shouting Santa's name, while intermittently rubbing dust from their eyes.
But when the dust settled and their eyes cleared, many of the older pupils guessed who Santa really was.
When he said, "Ho, ho, ho - good afternoon, George Street Normal School", the pupils replied "Good afternoon, Mr Galloway" (the school's principal).
Crew of the helicopter had planned to stay and speak to the children about what they did, but, unfortunately, the helicopter was called away to an accident.
Mr Galloway said the money was raised through several fundraising events as part of the school's character education programme.
He said raising money for people or organisations in need had been a valuable lesson for pupils at the school.
"We want the children to realise the value of service and caring for others, without expecting reward.
"It just so happens that this time they are lucky and there is a reward."
