About 14 schools took part in the red-and-black mufti day, which was organised by South Otago Principals' Association president and Rosebank Primary School principal Chris Morris.
"It's quite unnatural for people down here to wear red and black ... We wanted to show some empathy with the people of Canterbury."
Balclutha Primary School principal Paddy Ford told his pupils he was proud of their effort, and the staunch Otago supporter even wore a black shirt and red tie to school.
Mr Morris did not know how much money had been raised yesterday, and said the amount collected was almost secondary to the show of solidarity.
One of the things still being talked about was where to contribute the money.
The Selwyn district was seen as a potential beneficiary, because it was a rural district adjacent to a city, which was similar to South Otago, Mr Morris said.
"If that doesn't work out, it will go into the general relief fund."
