The British automotive marque was founded by Cecil Kimber in the 1920s, with cars still being manufactured under the iconic octagon-shaped emblem today.
The name MG stands for Morris Garages, as a show of respect for Kimber’s then-boss William Morris.
The South Canterbury club was founded in 1984, and past and present members are planning to hold a rally on October 19 to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
Founding member Dave Barron said the club was initially formed due to an ad in the newspaper.
"A guy by the name Russell Stevenson put an ad in the newspaper asking if anyone was interested in forming a group or a club.
"I’d previously been a member of the national MG club in Wellington for 10 years and I had an MG at that stage, so I was quite interested.
He said the club began with monthly runs that culminated with afternoon tea at a member’s house, as well as an annual weekend away.
"At one stage we had about 60 members, that was in the early days, it was quite prolific.
"We even had people from Oamaru, Ashburton and Kurow that would come along.
"After a while though we found we were running out of places to go, so we decided to make the runs once every two months.
"It’s quite unbelievable to think that is now 40 years ago."
Club captain Neil Manchester said the club was still going on regular runs, and was presently sitting at about 30 members.
He said all past and present members were invited to partake in the club’s anniversary celebrations.
"We’ll just go out for a small run on the Saturday afternoon and then go out for dinner."
Mr Manchester said he had always been a fan of British vehicles.
"I had an MGB and saw an MGA at a Winchester swap meet in a thousand bits, and I had always liked the wee MGAs, so I bought it and put it back together.
"I’ve always liked old English cars and motorcycles and I just like restoring them, driving them and using them — that’s what they were made for and it’s another one we get back on the road is another one saved.
"The cars are made to be used. Mine’s been up to the North Island and back about three times."
Anyone wanting more information about the anniversary or wishing to register can email mg1956@xtra.co.nz.
