School operations manager Erin Marlow said she hoped members of the public would give new, small, gender- and age-specific gifts for the cause.
A 7.8 magnitude earthquake cut off the tourist town in the South Island on November 14.
''As well as the uncertainty and anxiety with aftershocks, there are limited options for parents to get their children gifts ... We hope this gesture will bring a smile on to the children's faces this Christmas.''
As well as gifts from polytechnic staff, students and members of the public, 60 wooden bird feeders made by level 4 carpentry students would be donated.
New Zealand Post had offered to transport the items from Dunedin to Christchurch, but transportation from Christchurch to Kaikoura was still being organised.
People wanting to give could drop gifts at the Otago Polytechnic Hub or the Hits radio station, Ms Marlow said.
Gifts would be received until December 16.
