Every 2 years a model engineering convention is held somewhere in New Zealand.
 Easter 1975 was the very first mini-rally, held at Nelson. All others since then have been held in early January.
1978 - Nelson - The first National Model Steam Rally. 208 people registered. 39 locomotives on the track.
1981 - Nelson "Fun in the Sun 81". 234 people registered. 47 locomotives on the track plus 2 traction engines.
1983 - New Plymouth
1985
1987 - Blenheim . 244 people registered. 58 locomtives and 2 traction engines.
1990 - Auckland Manukau Live Steamers
1992 - Nelson - "Steam and Cinders". Recorded as the 6th National Rally. I am guessing at the dates above that are without locations. Total registrations not recorded, but there were 7 people from Australia and 2 from America. 62 locomotives plus 1 crane.
1994 - Havelock North
1996 - Dunedin
1998 - Tauranga
2000 - Blenheim
2002 - Palmerston North
2004 - Hamilton
2006 - Christchurch
2008 - Auckland Manukau Live Steamers attended by 250 people, including 50 from overseas.
2010 - Nelson
2012 - Whangarei
2014 - Dunedin
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Wednesday 6th - Sunday 10th of January 2010
Programme
Tuesday 5th - arrivals, no formal programme.
Wednesday 6th though Sunday 10th - main programme, details closer to the time.
Monday 11th - departures and cleanup, no formal programme.
Thinking of attending?
Register on this form
Accommodation
January is high season for accommodation in Nelson. If you are intending to come to the convention you will need to book early.
There is a motor camp next to our site.
There are several motels within walking distance.
Check out these accommodation and tourism sites:
Latitude Nelson - i-Site
New Zealand Tourism Online
Nelson Tourism Services
Nelson Escapes
Best of NZ - Nelson Region
 Other Activities
Nelson is known as an arts and crafts centre with many practicing artists, potters and cabinetmakers in the area.
There is a very good market every Saturday morning in Montgomery Square, selling jewellery and crafts as well as food and produce.
Tahunanui Beach is an excellent swimming beach.
Galleries Paintings, Jewellery, Pottery, Furniture, Textiles, Photography
Restaurants and yet more Restaurants
Wineries in the wider Tasman district.
Potteries
Hoglund art glass studio.
World of Wearable Art and Classic Cars
Adventure tourism such as:
Giant flying fox
Sky Diving
Helicopters
etc.
Abel Tasman National Park - golden beaches, kayak trips, boat trips, etc.
Many things in Golden Bay. Worth a couple of extra days at least.
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