December 31, 2025 7:40 PM

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Kiribati and Australia welcome New Year 2026 with colourful fireworks

 
The Pacific island nation of Kiribati became the first country in the world to welcome 2026 as the clock struck midnight in its Line Islands, marking the official start of New Year’s celebrations worldwide. Auckland also ushered in the new year with a colourful fireworks display over the Sky Tower. The annual fireworks illuminated the night sky as huge crowds gathered at the city’s Central Business District took part in the celebrations. The five-minute show featured 3,500 fireworks launched from multiple levels of the 787-foot tower, New Zealand’s tallest structure. Other Pacific island nations, including Samoa and Tonga, as well as Tokelau a dependent territory of New Zealand have also welcomed 2026 with celebrations. Australia welcomed the New Year with spectacular fireworks, led by Sydney on the East Coast. The iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge lit up the night sky as the highly anticipated fireworks display began, drawing crowds of spectators from across the city and around the world. Residents and tourists gathered along the waterfront to witness the dazzling pyrotechnics, which showcased a vibrant blend of colour, light, and music, setting a festive tone for the year ahead.