Auckland's primary teacher shortage has hit a new record.

There are at least 287 open spots for primary and intermediate teachers across the city, currently advertised in the Education Gazette.

The last peak was nine years ago, when there were 216 vacancies.

Balmoral School principal Malcolm Milner said schools are facing a perfect storm.

He said classrooms are packed because of record immigration, the number of teachers coming through training is down and trained staff are leaving the city because they can't afford housing.