FAQs

 

Q. When is this year’s festival?

A. Steampunk NZ Festival is held annually on King’s Birthday Weekend. In 2026 the dates are Thursday 29 May to Monday 1 June. 

 

Q. When will the programme be released?

A. The main programme with the key events will be online shortly.  Keep watching our Facebook page for announcements.Keep watching our Facebook page for announcements.

 

Q. When do tickets go on sale?

A. Tickets go on sale Friday 10 April 2026 at 10pm SHARP!  Tickets are sold online via this website.

 

Q. What is the theme for this year?

A. The theme for 2026 is ‘Frontiers of Steam’. Join us on a journey to the frontiers of science, invention, exploration, time , imagination, and even a smigen of wild, wild west. As always there is no obligation to follow the themes in your attire. Every Steampunk is welcome!

 

Q. What are the competitions for this year?

A.  In 2026 the creative opportunities are:  

 

The Cabinet of Curiosity: The 2026 Cabinet of Curiosity is a Scientific Cabinet where participants will purchase a specified container in which to create their own segment of a larger Cabinet of Curiosity. All entries will be joined together at the Festival. Details available here.

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Snake Oil Sales: Create your special miracle potion - be it ‘Tincture of Cog’ or ‘Potion of Steam Beetle’ – and bring the potion in its enticing bottle.  Entrants will have an opportunity to ‘sell’ their potion, so practice your banter - or get someone else to do this bit for you!  Details available here.

 

Q. Will there be a theme for the Fashion Show in 2026?

A. There isn't a theme so much this year as an underlying ethos in how entrants' costumes are created...more details here!

 

Q. Will there be a Trinket Swap opportunity in 2026?

A. Absolutely!  Watch for more details...