History

Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s Canterbury has been providing support, information, and education to people with MS and Parkinson’s since 1962. During the last 60 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 us over the last 60 years and it is our sincerest hope that in the next 60 years there will be no more need for us 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.

2022

We moved to BrainTree Wellness Centre in June and also changed from a Society to a Trust.