Both Whanganui teams are very pleased to be putting their efforts behind raising money for KidsCan, the children's charity that supports 621 low-decile schools across New Zealand, 60 of which are based in the Manawatu-Whanganui region.
The Johnsons also organised a quiz night fundraiser for KidsCan which was held at Stellar on Sunday night.
Mrs Johnson said she will not make the journey to Kaitaia with her husband but will join him when the cars stop in Whanganui next Saturday.
The convoy of 60 cars will stop at Upokongaro where other Mini drivers will join them and drive to Whanganui for lunch behind the old Chronicle building in Taupo Quay before they head to Wellington.
Ms Gil and Mr Wilkinson will be making their first visit to the South Island and say they cannot think of a better way to make the journey to Invercargill.
Charity run organiser Murray Hemsley said the oldest car registered for the run this year is a 1962 Mini Cooper and the charity run is not for the faint-hearted.
"After six days and seven nights on the road, only the best prepared, the fittest, the strongest, the desperate, cunning, and the most courageous, will arrive in Invercargill."
Both Whanganui entrants said they were confident their cars would make it to the finish, as both are in tip-top shape.
