Web traffic will converge on the Wellington Town Hall this week for the fifth incarnation of the Webstock conference.

Re-emerging four times since 2006, Webstock is a gathering of internet developers and web creatives discussing ways of maintaining and lifting standards of website design and usability.

The event hosts a range of international speakers, covering an eclectic mix of topics in both smaller workshop sessions and the conference proper.

This year's lineup includes senior Facebook manager David Recordon and American artist and musician Amanda Palmer, who will discuss how she uses the internet and Twitter to connect with fans.

Also on the bill is Peter Sunde, co-founder of the infamous The Pirate Bay, a Swedish torrent site that illegally distributes copyrighted material, and Twitter's creative director Doug Bowman.

Co-founder of the event Mike Brown said it is as much about building excitement about the future of the internet as it is honing the craft of website building.

"I think people come along looking to find techniques and tips to help them in their job, but they're also looking for inspiration and talking about the big picture stuff."

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