Mazda Foundation makes a difference across the country

The Mazda Foundation has donated more than $54,000 in 2014, including conservation groups. Photo / Supplied

The Mazda Foundation has donated more than $54,000 to 27 individuals and groups across New Zealand in the final round of donations for the year, making 2014 the largest funding year since 2009.

The Mazda Foundation has now distributed over $1.7million and holds three rounds of distributions each year selecting New Zealanders, community groups and charities that are in need of support.

A combination of education facilities, conservation programs, individuals, and organisations were granted much needed funding in this latest round of distributions, including Recreate NZ, which offer a unique range of adventure programs to disabled youth. The organisation received $3,000 to purchase a shuttle trailer for their Auckland branch to carry participants' gear to their various adventure activities organised by the charity, which include camping, white water rafting, and caving.

Recreate NZ run over 200 programs a year for their Auckland participants but also operate programs in Christchurch. Many of the camps and getaway trips travel all over New Zealand, from Cape Reinga in the far north to Queenstown in the South Island.

The organisation ensures that those who take part are able to enjoy New Zealand's beautiful surroundings and adventure tourism safely, but this is only possible by providing secure transport, as well as a means of carrying personal gear, food and equipment.

"This grant from the Mazda Foundation will make a huge difference to our adventure programs," says Brent Jenkin, General Manager, Recreate NZ.

"Now we don't have worry about the cost of hiring trailers every time and these savings can be passed on to benefit the development of our camping trips and other activities."

Another grant went to the New Zealand Conservation Trust (NZCT), a Christchurch based charity that is dedicated to the conservation, education and breeding of New Zealand endemic species, focusing particularly on the kiwi.

NZCT received $6,835 towards upgrading the lighting in their kiwi nocturnal house. The nocturnal house gives visitors a first-hand experience of seeing a kiwi up close, something very few people ever get to do in the wild.

Strategically placed, improved lighting will make it as close to the kiwi's natural environment as possible. The lighting will also enhance the visitors' experience as they watch the unique birds forage for worms among trees, grasses and plants.

"We're really grateful to the Mazda Foundation for this grant as it's an important job protecting our national icon," says Janet Hellyer, Resource and Education Coordinator, NZCT.

"The nocturnal house is an ideal opportunity for us to educate visitors as well as being a wonderful way to advocate for the kiwi. Upgrading the lighting will mean that this will be one of the best kiwi viewing facilities in NZ."

Andrew Clearwater, Chairman of the Mazda Foundation says he is always astounded by amount of organisations, projects and individuals working hard and making a difference.

"The final funding round for this year saw a large number of causes apply for grants and we are incredibly privileged to have been able to help so many. 2014 has proven to be fantastic year for the foundation which has granted its largest amount in the last five years to a variety of charities and organisations from across the country."

Whether it's supporting the disabled youth or protecting our national icon, it's always astounding to see just how much great work goes on across the country."