David Bowie, Prince and Gene Wilder will be the feature of Sydney's New Year's Eve firework display in a tribute to them and other entertainment legends who passed away this year.

Final preparations for the big night are in full swing as barges are loaded with 120 tonnes of fireworks on Sydney Harbour.

Songs by the late stars have been incorporated in the soundtrack for this year's fireworks and have inspired "never-before-seen" pyrotechnic effects which will light up the harbour at 9pm and midnight.

"Celebrating their music as part of the Sydney New Year's Eve fireworks displays is an opportunity to reflect on the year that's been and celebrate what the future holds," said co-producer of Sydney's NYE Catherine Flanagan.