The Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s Society of Canterbury (Inc) has been providing support, information and education to people with MS and Parkinson’s since 1962. During the last 50 years, staff and volunteers have supported thousands of Cantabrians.
Our purpose has always been to support our members by offering an accessible, open and welcoming service.
We would like to thank those who have supported the Society over the last 50 years and it is our sincerest hope that in the next 50 years there will be no more need for our Society to exist. Until that day comes, we are here to help.
1962
A public meeting was held on the 22nd of March to form a Society and was presided over by the Mayor Mr George Manning. The meeting was attended by over 200 people. Seven months later, Multiple Sclerosis Society Canterbury was incorporated on the 5th of November. Forty-five people attended the meeting and a committee was formed.
1963
Students of the University of Canterbury presented the Society with a sizeable donation of £5,209 used to purchase an old house and section at 22 St Asaph Street.
1965
The site at 22 St Asaph Street was officially opened; this was the first stage in developing a welfare centre.
1975
The Multiple Sclerosis Society of New Zealand passed a motion that regional MS Societies accept people with Parkinson’s as members. At that time the Canterbury Society had four members with Parkinson’s.
1980
Significant changes were made to the Society’s operations including a drive to contact people with Parkinson’s. Over 100 new members joined and qualified staff were appointed.
1990
The Canterbury Society became an informal division of Parkinson’s New Zealand.
1999
Name changed to The Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s Society of Canterbury (Inc).
2018
The Society supports over 900 members and their families from Kaikoura to Ashburton.
Moved to 3/49 Sir William Pickering Drive, Burnside.