For the first time in the world Song Cloud, an immersive light and sound art installation, will be displayed in Rotorua for people to enjoy.

People of all ages are invited to take a journey through the long white cloud to experience the world premiere of this contemporary celebration of Matariki, located in Te Manawa, on the corner of Tūtanekai St and Hinemoa St.

This free art installation will be open daily between 5pm until 10pm from Wednesday July 3 until Sunday July 21.

When you step inside the cloud, you ascend into te iwa a Matariki - the nine stars of Matariki, and their connection to the natural world. This will feature an immersive lighting display that pulsates and surrounds the audience, animating to themes of nature, worldly weather patterns and beautiful deep clear night skies.

These themes will pair with an especially composed soundscape by James Webster of Te Arawa, Tainui. James used traditional taonga puoro - singing treasures, to compose this unique piece of music which, like the Maori language, reflects the sounds and rhythms of nature and the environment.

James Webster recording the soundscape for Song Cloud. Photo: Rotorua Lakes Council

Song Cloud was created by lighting and design studio Amigo & Amigo in collaboration with Otis Studios and Litepix. Their unique and creative displays are often seen in light festivals in New Zealand and Australia. One of the creators, Simone Chua, explains Song Cloud was designed to bring us back to simple genuine emotions created through the elements.

'Song Cloud is a long white cloud of wonder that draws us in and takes us on its transformative journey,” says Simone. 'The cloud sends us stories from across the land and across time. Sharing a connection as old as humankind that transcends language and speaks to our place inside our own small bubble of life.

'Once inside you are immediately removed from the cityscape you just stepped, and we hope you emerge from the cloud alive and aware, a calmer more grounded you.”

On Wednesday July 3 Simone and her team will see their vision come to life for the first time. James Webster will perform some of his composition using taonga puoro before the installation is open to the public.

Rotorua is celebrating Matariki with a wide range of events throughout June and July. For more information on other events visit http://www.rotorualakescouncil.nz/matariki