New Zealand kicks off 2026 with fireworks, global celebrations subdued
The five-minute show featured 3,500 fireworks from various floors of the 240-meter Sky Tower
New Zealand's Auckland welcomed 2026 with a downtown fireworks display launched from the city's landmark Sky Tower, making it the first major city to mark the new year despite rainy weather.
The five-minute show featured 3,500 fireworks from various floors of the 240-meter tower, while smaller community events across New Zealand's North Island were cancelled due to forecasts of rain and thunderstorms.
Australia's east coast marked the new year two hours later under heavy security following the country's deadliest mass shooting in nearly three decades. Police monitored crowds at Sydney Harbour Bridge as attendees observed a minute of silence for the 14 December victims, with Premier Chris Minns urging residents to attend and show defiance against terrorism.
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Indonesia and Hong Kong scaled back celebrations out of respect for recent disasters. Jakarta and Makassar held subdued programs with prayers and cultural events, while Hong Kong replaced fireworks with light shows and concerts.
Other parts of Asia observed traditional New Year customs, including bell-ringing ceremonies in Tokyo and Seoul. In Berlin, snowfall greeted the new year as residents and tourists-built snowmen and took selfies near landmarks.
