I was lucky enough to combine a family holiday in New Zealand during January with attending the 17th NZ National Pre-56 MG Rally, being held in Whangarei (north of Auckland).

These Rallies have been run biennially, alternating between NZs North and South Islands, for the past 32 years. Having been involved as Chairman of the organising committee for the inaugural Rally back in 1977 before I emigrated to Adelaide in 1979, it was about time for me to observe how these Rallies have evolved.

It would be fair to report our octagonal kiwi cousins are continuing to do great things over across the Tasman. Recently, early Magnettes and MGAs have been added to the list of eligible cars, and this year the 2 dozen MGAs entered were the most prolific model in attendance  including two MGA Deluxes and two Twin Cams.

Square rigger entries this year included 14 TFs, 6 TDs, a TA, TB, 2 TCs, 3 J2s, NA, F-type, 6 or 7 Pre-war Saloons & Dropheads, plus a couple of Ys and Maggies  over 60 MGs in total. My favourites included a stunning TB Tickford and a genuine C-type Montlhrey Midget, still sporting its UK number plates.

Among the overseas guests (who at past NZ Rallies have included USAs Dick Knudson and UKs Mike Hawke), were some UK visitors plus Aussie duo Ross Taylor (Newcastle) and Melbournes indominatable Peter Gostello who flew to New Zealand at just two days notice!

All us overseas visitors loved the camaraderie and activities of the Whangarei Rally which included the usual concours, trial, motorkhana, bent sprint, with compulsory social functions, farewell breakfast and Trophy Presentation Dinner.

The dinner was a top event, even if the tables and venue were devoid of any sort of MG decorations  but the huge amount of food and drink compensated for this!

Its interesting to note these Pre-56 Rallies are now held over a full week during January to catch the school holidays, thereby making it family friendly to take the kids along!

I was able to show Geraldine Houghs excellent MG Lobethal video presentation, plus do a small spruik for Australias Pre-war MG Rally at Beechworth, and managed to slip into many a conversation how Adelaide can boast road-going MG K3 plus MG R type.

Can’t wait for the next one 2011 somewhere in the South Island.