Mazda Foundation Supports Wildlife and the Community

A new hospital for injured penguins and more than 100 food parcels for Kiwi families in need were just some of the 17 grants given in the first Mazda Foundation funding round for 2023.

The foundation gifted more than $55,000 to individuals and community organisations around the country, supporting environmental, animal welfare and educational initiatives, and New Zealanders in need. Since 2005, the foundation has given over $4.5 million back to the community.

Animal rescue centre Helping Paws Charitable Trust received $5000 for a new rehabilitation wing at its facility in Northland dedicated to helping injured and endangered blue penguins.

“Little blue penguins congregate on New Zealand’s coastline and are often found to be injured or dying,” says Helping Paws Trustee Megan Denize.

“We are in the process of building a new wing that will be dedicated to helping these animals recover from injury before being released back into the wild.”

New Zealand’s leading bee education programme in schools, Bee Awesome Limited, received $3,647.75 for new equipment as the organisation grows to meet increased demand.

Director of Bee Awesome, Hayley Guglietta, says they are grateful for the funding from the Mazda Foundation which is helping them to expand their programme.

"Kids don’t get to experience outdoor learning very much anymore. Our programme gets them outside to learn first-hand about ecosystems and why bees are so important to them.

“The lessons are outdoor, fun, and engaging that teach kids about biodiversity, food security and sustainability through bees.”

The Bright Foundation works with primary school children and their families to provide essentials including uniforms, food, and stationery.

It received $4,695 to fund over 100 food parcels for families who are struggling with New Zealand’s high cost of living.

CK Ranchhod, Secretary for the Bright Foundation, says since the foundation launched in 2018 it has helped over 8000 struggling students from low-decile schools.

“The foundation works with social workers, school principals and teachers to find the biggest challenges primary school students are facing then we work to find a way to fulfil that need.

“We are very thankful to the Mazda Foundation for supporting our charity. Without donations from organisations like them, we wouldn’t be able to create our programmes that find ways to help students.”

The Crescendo Trust of Aotearoa received $4,450 for new equipment at its West Auckland studio for its mentoring programme.

Pippa Ludek, Fundraiser for The Crescendo Trust of Aotearoa, says the Trust supports rangatahi by connecting them with real-world industry experience and mentorship.

“In 2022, 85% of our students transitioned into further education, training, or employment. They can directly engage with people in the creative industry. It enables them to learn a wide range of industry knowledge and skills they can use for the rest of their life.”

David Hodge, Managing Director of Mazda New Zealand and Chairman of the Mazda Foundation, says it’s amazing to be able to help so many organisations and individuals.

“Whether it’s large environmental projects or food parcels for families, I’m proud that the foundation can help.”

The Mazda Foundation is funded through a contribution from the sale of every new Mazda in New Zealand.