Steampunks from all over New Zealand are descending on Thames to celebrate the town's unique blend of art, heritage and culture this month.

The Steampunk Thames Festival is back and bigger than ever with a range of events, exhibitions, workshops and competitions taking place in and around Thames on November 11-13.

For the uninitiated, ‘Steampunk' is a subgenre of science fiction which celebrates steam-powered technology and often set in an alternate, futuristic 19th century Victorian England or American Wild West – think H.G. Wells and Jules Verne.

The festival is run by charitable society Steampunk the Thames Inc. and its committee of ten members who each bring a wealth of talent, fresh ideas and a passion to 'art up Thames”.

President Deb MacDonald Brown says Saturday, November 12, is the biggest day of the festival and features the ‘Steampunk on Parade' procession which takes place along Pahau Street.

'Steampunk on Parade of punked vehicles and walkers shows off all the imagination, ingenuity and determination which is what Thames is known for. Captain Steamo on his Gryphon 101 and Captain Nemo with his Nautilus will highlight.

'The parade will park up beside the Steampunk Market of all the goodies any self-respecting steampunk could desire and an airbrush artist will demonstrate her talent, and if you're up for it, you can have a go yourself in the afternoon.

Also taking place on Saturday is the Street Circus and Street Carnival which takes place 'right in the heart of town”, as well as a Steampunk Music Hall at Brew and Tracy's Steampunk Ball held at the famous Bella Street Pumphouse.

After a full on Saturday, the Sunday will be a little more low key - but only just, says Deb.

'Start the day with a Steampunk Breakfast at the GBD and more talks at the School of Mines. For the family-minded and those who still like a little play there are rides on the miniature trains at Victoria Park, a great chance to catch up with new friends.

While you are in town don't forget to check out all the wonderful exhibitions at the GBD, the Library and the Treasury.”

Deb is also reminding everyone 'Thames is the steampunk selfie capital of the planet” and there'll be a staged backdrop erected at the Thames Museum throughout the festival.

'Whether you are an engineer or poet, salvager, artificer or historian there will be something on to turn your crank.”

The Steampunk the Thames Festival takes place in Thames on November 11-13. To view the full 2016 festival programme visit: www.steampunkthethames.org