Steampunk HQ
A steampunk art space built from salvaged machinery. A retired locomotive out front that puffs steam and whistles, and a mirrored light room inside, are popular photo spots.
Steampunk HQ is housed in a granary built in 1883. Outside, an old steam locomotive waits, and visitors can pay to make it puff steam and whistle. Inside, fantastical art installations made from gears, pipes and old machines fill the rooms, enhanced with smoke, lights and sound to create a retro sci-fi atmosphere. The most popular piece is the “Portal,” an infinite mirrored light room. Because of this, Oamaru is known as New Zealand's steampunk capital, and it holds a steampunk festival every June. Admission is about NZ$15, and a visit takes around one hour.
Opening hours
10:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Victorian Precinct
- Forrester Gallery
- Ōamaru Opera House
- Ōamaru Public Gardens
- Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony
- Bushy Beach Scenic Reserve
- Totara Estate
- Riverstone Castle