Auckland has become the first major city to welcome in 2025. Thousands of revelers are counting down the new year and enjoying colourful fireworks launched from New Zealand's tallest structure, the Sky Tower, and a spectacular light show in the city centre, as reported by the San Diego Union Tribune.
Thousands of people also crowded into the city centre or climbed the ring of volcanic peaks to see the fireworks, as well as a light show in recognition of Auckland's indigenous tribes. It comes after a year marked by protests against Maori rights in the state of 5 million.
Countries in the South Pacific are the first to welcome the New Year, with midnight in New Zealand striking 18 hours before the ball drops in New York's Times Square.
Other cities around the world are gearing up for celebrations highlighting local cultures and traditions after a year rocked by ongoing conflict and political instability.
In Australia, more than 1 million people are expected at Sydney Harbour for the traditional fireworks. British pop star Robbie Williams will sing and ceremonies and Indigenous performances will mark the first people on earth.
Much of Japan is closed in the run-up to the country's biggest holiday, and temples and homes are undergoing a thorough cleaning, including scrubbing the floor mats, called "tatami", with large sticks.
The upcoming Year of the Snake in the Asian zodiac has been declared a year of rebirth - a hint at the shedding of the reptile's skin. Small figurines of smiling snakes and other snake-themed products are sold in shops in Japan, where the zodiac cycle begins on January 1. Other places in Asia will start celebrating the Year of the Snake later, with the Lunar New Year.
In South Korea, celebrations have been limited or cancelled as the country is in national mourning following Sunday's crash of a Jeju Air flight in Muan that killed 179 people.
In Thailand's Bangkok, two major shopping malls competed for crowds with live music performances and fireworks.
While CentralWorld is the older venue, the relatively new ICONSIAM has the scenic advantage of its location on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and a performance by popular rap singer Lisa, the Thai member of South Korean girl group Blackpink, scheduled shortly before midnight.
Jakarta's New Year celebrations will feature dazzling fireworks, including an 800-drone show, followed by a countdown to midnight at the city's iconic Hotel Indonesia roundabout.
Chinese state media covered the exchange of New Year's greetings between leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, a reminder of the growing closeness between the two leaders who face tensions with the West. | BGNES
