''Crank up'' has special pulling power for steam enthusiasts at Edendale today.
The Edendale Vintage Machinery Club and the Southland Steam Engine Club will unveil a plaque to mark the arrival of the first steam plough in New Zealand more than 150 years ago.
A John Gray & Co traction engine powered steam plough from Scotland was imported by Matthew Holmes, of Seawards Downs estate, aboard Sir William Eyre, which docked at the Invercargill jetty on April 23, 1863.
A Celebration of Steam convener David Clark expected the usual Crank Up attendance of 10 to 12 traction engines to double this year.
On loan from the United Kingdom is a showman's traction engine, sporting brightly coloured paintwork, ornate decorations and a full canopy.
A different twist on the steam theme this year will be steam punk parades, with entries open to the public.
This quirky genre of fashion mixes Victorian-style dress with industrial age themes. Pre-1995 commercial vehicles also feature.
Crank Up convener Ken Bell said the classic commercial truck movement had become significant.
Classic trucks came with a strong element of pride and nostalgia for enthusiasts, Mr Bell said.
Regular rain meant Southland did not have the same fire danger as Otago.
Mr Bell said 6mm of rain fell this week but organisers would have more water tankers on hand than usual to fight any fires.
Retired detective inspector Graham Bell, the former host of the television series Police Ten 7, is guest speaker.
He was very much looking forward to attending Crank Up because of his interest in vintage machinery.
A new event this year is the fastest spanner competition, in which two teams race against each other to strip down and rebuild a Toyota engine to running condition. The competition will be held twice daily today and tomorrow.
Entertainment includes the Lower Mataura Valley Country Music Club, Deep South Rhythm, the Blue Jays marching team, Irish and Highland dancing and pipe band displays.
- Russell Fredric
