New Zealand and Australia welcome new year 2026

New Zealand becomes one of the first countries to welcome the New Year.Auckland welcomed 2026 with a spectacular fireworks display from the tallest building, the Sky Tower, despite rainy conditions dampening the celebrations. Auckland’s 1.7 million residents witnessed 3,500 fireworks launched from multiple levels of the 240-metre (787-foot) tower.Forecasts and possible thunderstorms of rain led to the cancellation of smaller community events across New Zealand's North Island.

#WATCH | Fireworks adorn New Zealand's Auckland as it welcomes the #NewYear2026.

(Source: TVNZ via Reuters) https://t.co/BNqBWHimml pic.twitter.com/hOdme8i36M

— ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2025

In Australia, Sydney marked the arrival of 2026 under sombre circumstances. Thousands gathered at the downtown waterfront for fireworks over the Sydney Harbour Bridge, with a strong police presence.

Australia and New Zealand are already in 2026

Fireworks erupt over Sydney Harbor, setting the tone for the year ahead

The New Year countdown moves west pic.twitter.com/levD9Pxolq

— RT (@RT_com) December 31, 2025

In Indonesia, New Year events were scaled back as a mark of respect for communities affected by floods and landslides in Sumatra last month, which claimed over 1,100 lives. Jakarta opted for subdued celebrations focused on prayers for the victims, while Makassar’s mayor urged citizens to avoid parties, advocating for reflection and empathy instead. On Bali, traditional cultural performances replaced cancelled fireworks shows. Hong Kong also adopted a restrained approach following a devastating fire in November that killed at least 161 people.

Kiritimati Island in Kiribati, a country in the Pacific Ocean, is the first place in the world to welcome the New Year. The island, located in the UTC+14 time zone, is also known as Christmas Island.