Native bird conservation, art therapy, and “curious contraptions” are among the many people and projects supported by the Mazda Foundation in its latest round of funding. 

Almost $66,000 was gifted to individuals and organisations across the country with a strong focus on the preservation of New Zealand’s natural environment and supporting the well-being of young people. 

The Mazda Foundation is funded through a contribution from the sale of every new Mazda in New Zealand. Each year it runs three funding rounds to help Kiwis in need with over $4.3 million being gifted back to the community since its inception in 2005. 

BirdCare Aotearoa received $2817 to purchase two infusion pumps and cold laser therapy units which are critical for the life-saving care and rehabilitation services they provide. 

Other recipients this round received grants for creative art initiatives. Marlborough-based Creative Kids Trust received $4700 to purchase musical instruments for its artistic therapy group programme and wellness sessions.

Whirinaki Whare Taonga, an arts, cultural, and events centre in Upper Hutt, received a grant of $5,000 to cover the theatre hire for its latest exhibition, Curious Contraptions.  

David Hodge, Chairman of the Mazda Foundation, says the Foundation is proud to continue providing support for initiatives that make a difference to New Zealanders.

“We are thrilled to support organisations like BirdCare Aotearoa who do incredible work protecting and caring for our native wildlife. We are also proud to be contributing to creative art initiatives to enrich young Kiwis,” he says.

The closing date for the next round of Mazda Foundation applications is 30 September 2022.