The Dunedin Steampunk Society and the Otago Model Engineering Society are presenting "Steam Fest" at the engineering society’s clubroom.
Dunedin Steampunk Society treasurer Allan Benfell said steampunk is about taking visions of the past and applying them to the future.
The distinctive aesthetic is based on what Victorians thought the future might look like, creating a retrofuturistic world where mechanical marvels were powered by steam.
Mr Benfell scours op shops for clothing he can transform into exotic attire, or items he can repurpose to construct curious creations.
"You look at the world slightly differently because you go into the op shops and think ‘OK, what can I make with that?’."
Old clocks or pieces of machinery are good options to dismantle and use in new ways.
"It is very creative, you can let your imagination run free."
"It is immense fun," he said.
Another highlight will be the Otago Model Engineering Society’s radio-controlled construction and trucking group.
"All their equipment is 3D printed and is fully working. They sound and look like real machinery, like the dozers, the diggers, the trucks and everything, so that is a special treat for the Saturday."
Outside, mini trains will be running, and on the pond, there will be radio-controlled ships and boats of all kinds.
"There will be food available, food and coffee and ice creams on sale outside, so you can come, buy your lunch here and play around all day."
• Steam Fest is open this Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 3.30pm at 1 John Wilson Ocean Dr, St Kilda.
