"It is amazing to see. Boots of all shapes and sizes are being brought in," Mr Austin said.
"We are most appreciative to all those readers who donated them. I am sure the kids will be delighted."
Sport Hawke's Bay commercial manager Ryan Hambleton said the initiative was a win-win campaign. "Anything that will get kids more active and reduces the barriers is a good thing," he said.
Drop-off points:
NZME House, Level 1, 105 Dickens St, Napier.
301 Heretaunga St East, Hastings.
76a Ruataniwha St, Waipukurau.
16 Gordon St, Dannevirke.
Wairoa Community Centre, 33 Marine Parade, Wairoa.