Lower-Rangitikei schools are seeking free access to the Marton Swim Centre and reduced instruction fees to allow a more comprehensive swim programme for pupils.
The South Rangitikei Schools Principals' Cluster asked for the favours at the Rangitikei District Council's long-term-plan hearing last week.
Marton School principal Brya Dixon said the schools had received funding in the past for instruction and transport but it was difficult to cover all schools and year groups evenly.
"All of our schools are doing about eight to 10 lessons a season. That's it, that's all we can afford," she told councillors.
"We have a fantastic facility in our community and we want to get the best access to it."
It costs a $2 entry fee per pupil and $6 per 45-minute lesson.
Alongside free entry, the schools have asked the council to drop the lesson charge to $3.25 per pupil.
It wants the council to continue to seek funding while schools would contribute $1 per lesson.
Mrs Dixon said the Marton School pool was decommissioned when the Marton Swim Centre was built because there was an understanding the council pool would be free for schools.
"We could all make more use of the pool if we could afford it," she said.
"The funding we have been given from the council is fantastic and we really appreciate it."