There is something for everyone at the massive Hobby Expo at the Events Centre this weekend.

Taupō's annual Hobby Expo is back this weekend, with more than 60 exhibitors heading to the Taupō Event Centre across Saturday and Sunday.

Families can expect everything from model trains and 3D printing to woodworking, (non-computer) war gaming and rock climbing.

Organisers are anticipating more than 2,000 visitors over the two days.

Now in its 31st year, the event is run by the Taupō Model Railway Club.

Organiser Michael Litolff says it is a hands-on alternative to screens.

"It's everything else but computer games. Kids have to be interactive — sitting there playing on a computer all day is not good for them."

Exhibitors are mainly locals but a few travel from as far as Auckland and Wellington, representing a broad mix of interests — radio-controlled cars, helicopters and boats, vintage vehicles, embroidery, photography, board games and tabletop miniature war gaming, among others.

The Ulysses motorcycle group will have bikes on display and run a gold coin fundraiser letting children be photographed on the machines.

The Taupō Woodworkers Guild is bringing a working lathe for demonstrations.

A 14-year-old will be on hand with his 3D printer, and the Taupō District Library's Brick Club — a Lego group for primary school children — will set up a hands-on building station.

Children can also take the controls of a model train on a newly built layout, race slot cars, and use the rock wall, which is included in the entry fee courtesy of the council.

"We like to think that we're putting this on for the locals. That's what we really want to do — show them what we do and what all the other clubs can do."

Exhibitors participate free of charge, with display tables provided at no cost. Vendors pay $30 for a table for the weekend — a rate that hasn't changed in the six years Mike has been running the show.

The Lion Foundation has contributed a $6,000 grant from gaming machine proceeds this year to cover about two-thirds of the cost of the event, with gate takings making up the rest.

The club is also looking for a new naming-rights sponsor following the departure of previous backers — anyone interested can get in touch with Litolff directly.

The expo sits within Taupō's Winterfest programme and lands during the July school holidays.

The Taupō Cosmopolitan Marching Ladies will run a café inside the venue. Doors open Saturday morning at the Taupō Event Centre.

The Hobby Expo is on from July 11-12 at the Taupō Event Centre. An Exhibition of crafts and models by various clubs, both local and from around the North Island. Saturday, 10am - 4pm and Sunday 10am – 3pm, 26 AC Baths Avenue, Taupō All Ages Ticket Information: Family Special $30 includes 1 raffle ticket. Adults $10 • Kids $5