Meeke will grace the Otago roads for a third straight year when he gets behind the wheel of his Rossendale Ford Escort Mk2 in April.
He raced to victory in the Otago Classic Rally in 2024, but a puncture this year put his chance for back-to-back wins to bed.
But the 46-year-old is back for another go at the classic title and sets up an exciting battle against another Otago Rally legend in Finland’s Pasi Hagstrom, who will drive a Central Machine Hire Porsche 911.
The duo have been the bookends of the European success on Otago roads. Hagstrom was the first European driver to win the title in 2004 — and backed it up again in 2006 — while Meeke is the latest to win last year.
"Otago Rally is rally drivers’ heaven," Meeke said.
"The quality of the roads, the other competitors and the glorious setting in Dunedin and Otago all combine to make it a standout event.
"I can’t wait to come back and drive the Rossendale Escort. To be invited back for their 50th anniversary event is an honour."
Event spokesman Roger Oakley said Meeke’s return is the perfect way to celebrate five decades of rallying excellence.
"We’re delighted that Kris has agreed to come back again and treat us to his spectacular driving," Oakley said.
"He’s hugely popular with the spectators and drivers, and such a great ambassador for the sport."
The 50th anniversary event will be raced across 280km of competitive stages, with 15 fast and flowing tests across the gravel roads of Dunedin and Otago.
It is shaping up to be another booming event with more than 90 competitors already signalling their intention to enter.
Organisers also have special plans to commemorate the anniversary of New Zealand’s longest continuously running rally, including a 240-page book capturing the history of the Otago Rally.
The Otago Rally will be held on April 10-12 next year. — Allied Media
