Auckland, New Zealand, distinguished itself as the first major city worldwide to usher in 2025, marked by a stunning display of colorful fireworks and an impressive light show from Sky Tower.
Thousands gathered in Auckland to witness the fireworks and light show celebrating the New Year. Revelers counted down to midnight as vibrant fireworks lit up the sky from New Zealand’s tallest structure, Sky Tower. Many also took vantage points on the city’s volcanic peaks to enjoy the spectacle, which included a tribute to Auckland’s Indigenous tribes. This came after a year punctuated by protests over Māori rights in the nation of 5 million.
The South Pacific nations, including New Zealand, are traditionally the first to welcome the New Year. Auckland’s celebration occurred a full 18 hours before the renowned ball drop in Times Square, New York. Other global cities were also prepared to celebrate their cultural traditions and achievements, despite a year filled with ongoing conflicts and political unrest.
Sydney, Australia, also welcomed 2025 with a grand fireworks display over the Sydney Harbor Bridge and across the bay, attended by over a million people. British pop star Robbie Williams led the crowd in a singalong. The celebration further acknowledged the land’s first people through Indigenous ceremonies and performances.
In Asia, countries prepared for the Year of the Snake, a symbol of renewal. Japan entered its biggest holiday by carrying out traditional cleaning rituals, while South Korea scaled back celebrations due to national mourning after a tragic plane crash.
In Bangkok, Thailand, major shopping malls attracted crowds with live music and fireworks, and in Jakarta, fireworks and a drone show illuminated the sky as the countdown commenced at the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout.
China and Russia exchanged New Year’s greetings, a reminder of the strengthening relations between the two countries amid Western tensions. Chinese state media highlighted an exchange between leaders Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin, pledging continued cooperation and bolstering economic ties despite international challenges.
Middle Eastern countries approached the New Year with caution due to ongoing conflicts. Israel’s ongoing war with Hamas and Lebanon’s economic crisis cast a somber tone over celebrations. In Dubai, plans for a vast fireworks show at the Burj Khalifa were set to proceed as usual.
In Rome, New Year’s festivities doubled as the start of Pope Francis’ Holy Year, drawing pilgrims to the city. In the United States, celebrations varied from the elaborate Times Square festivities to community events in cities like Las Vegas and Nashville. Fireworks lit the skies as Americans carried on New Year traditions, despite some weather-related cancellations.
As each time zone meets the New Year, from Auckland to American Samoa, global citizens reflect on past challenges and anticipate the opportunities of 2025.
As Auckland sets the stage for global New Year celebrations, the spectacular displays and cultural acknowledgments resonate worldwide, illustrating unity despite a tumultuous year. The celebrations capture a moment of joy and reflection, welcoming possibilities of the new year.
Source: Wsvn
