Once the domain for dead musicians, or those who couldn't be bothered touring anymore, the hologram is becoming a handy tool for politicians.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern appeared as a hologram at the annual Techweek innovation festival in Auckland on Monday, after she couldn't appear in person.

"I was disappointed I couldn't make it to Techweek in person, so this morning, I come as to you as a hologram instead," an image of Ardern told the ASB Waterfront Theatre audience.

Techweek claims Ardern is the first world leader to complete an official engagement using the technology. However, there have been other politicians that have used holograms in lieu of their physical form.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan appeared as a hologram at a party meeting when he was prime minister back in 2014, while French presidential candidate Jean-Luc Mélenchon used the technology last year to appear at seven different rallies during elections last year.

All praise our new, light-filled overlords.