"I had heard about the Mazda Foundation so thought I'd put a submission in and just give it a go.
"When the letter came I was thinking the worst but hoping for the best and when it said we were successful, I was shocked.
"Owhata School is an awesome place to be a part of and anything we can do to alleviate the financial pressures of the school and its parents, we are going to try."
Owhata School kapa haka tutor and kaiawhina (teacher aide) Tyler Pitau said the uniforms signalled a fresh start for the group.
"The group was in desperate need of some new uniforms as the currents ones are a few decades old and have definitely seen better days.
"Getting this grant was a big thing for the school and the pupils were stoked to find out they would be getting new gear."
Mr Pitau said the new uniforms would keep some of the old patterns but bring them into the modern style.
Mazda Foundation chairman Andrew Clearwater said the amount of selfless work taking place in communities across the country was always inspiring.
"Whether it's supporting disabled children, hardworking volunteer firefighters or any other project in need of assistance, it's always humbling to see how much hard work goes on throughout New Zealand."
The Mazda Foundation is funded through a contribution from the sale of every new Mazda in New Zealand.
Three funding rounds are held each year. The foundation, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary, has gifted nearly $1.9 million back to the community since it began.
-The closing date for the next round of Mazda Foundation applications is September 30. For more information visit www.mazdafoundation.org.nz.
