Steampunk theme for sci fi convention

Reconnaissance guest of honour, author Tee Morris, sporting his steampunk goggles. Photo / Supplied

If you happen to see someone cavorting up Eruera St this weekend decked out in a tailcoat, goggles and spats, perhaps with a ray gun holstered at their side - don't worry. You're not hallucinating.

Sartorial sci-fi fans will be showing off their best steampunk costumes as Reconnaissance, the 36th New Zealand National Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror convention, descends on Rotorua.

The convention celebrates the best in Kiwi writing about the modern, the magical, and the macabre.

Writing workshops, Q & A sessions and a 'CosPlay stream' are on the agenda for the convention, held at the Sudima Hotel from tomorrow through Monday.

Guest speakers include Kiwi steampunk author Pip Ballantine, British writer Gail Cariger, and Ballantine's husband and fellow writer Tee Morris.

The Sir Julius Vogel award ceremony will be held on Saturday to recognise the best in Kiwi sci-fi.

Andrew Ivamy is the co-chairperson of Reconnaissance, and has been attending these types of conventions (called NatCons) for the last 30 years.

He said the convention was a great opportunity for sci-fi fans to meet face-to-face. "With modern technology, fans can do all their networking online, but it's an opportunity to learn something new and ask the questions directly to panelists."

Mr Ivamy said this year's convention would see a heavy emphasis on cosplay - costume play - and steampunk.

Steampunk is a genre of science fiction inspired by 19th-century technology. Outfit is key: goggles are a staple, with various Victorian fashions adapted for personal style.

NatCons are fan-run conventions, with money from ticket sales used to cover costs. Mr Ivamy said he was looking forward to bringing a NatCon back to Rotorua. "It has been far too long since the NatCon has been held here."

Details

What:

Reconnaissance, the 36th New Zealand National Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror convention

Where:

Sudima Hotel, Eruera St

When:

Tomorrow 5pm -11pm,
Saturday 9am - 9pm,
Sunday 9am - 10pm,
Monday 9am - 4pm.

How much:

One day entry $60, Full weekend entry $100, masquerade $12. Tickets from Atlantis Books, Eruera St.

Details: www.timelord2067.com/convention.html.