Millions across the globe are ushering in the New Year, with festivities briefly overshadowing global conflicts. The South Pacific region was among the first to celebrate the arrival of 2025, setting off a wave of events across time zones.
New Zealand initiated the global transition, with Auckland hosting celebrations including a light display that recognized Indigenous tribes. Thousands gathered in the city's center and volcanic peaks, eagerly anticipating the traditional firework display.
Following New Zealand, Australia's Sydney Harbour became the focal point of attention, with over a million people congregating to witness the city's iconic fireworks display. Eager celebrants arrived nearly 20 hours early to secure prime viewing spots, emphasizing the scale of the event.
The Sydney celebrations commenced with a firework display created by the Indigenous group We Are Warriors. Projections of Aboriginal fisherwoman Barangaroo adorned the Harbour Bridge, accompanying fireworks that celebrated the land, sea and sky. Additionally, British pop star Robbie Williams was scheduled to lead a singalong as part of the night’s events.
In Asia, millions are also preparing to mark the Year of the Snake, considered a year of rebirth in the Asian zodiac. Japan has seen a surge in sales of snake-themed merchandise as the nation undertakes pre-celebration cleaning.
However, the atmosphere in South Korea was more subdued due to the recent Jeju Air flight crash at Muan, which claimed 179 lives. The country is currently observing a national mourning period, which led to the scaling back or canceling of many New Year celebrations.
Jakarta, Indonesia, is also hosting a New Year’s Eve event. The city’s celebrations include a pyrotechnic show, featuring 800 drones, along with countdowns to midnight centered at the iconic Hotel Indonesia Roundabout.
