As the clock struck midnight in the Pacific, New Zealand became the first major nation to usher in the year 2026 with a spectacular pyrotechnic display over its largest city. More than 3,500 individual fireworks were launched from the iconic Sky Tower in Auckland, painting the night sky and marking the beginning of global festivities that would sweep westward towards the United Kingdom.
A Pacific Prelude to the New Year
The honour of being the very first place to celebrate belonged to the island of Kiritimati, part of Kiribati. This Pacific nation, which gained independence from the UK in 1979, spans a vast area of the ocean. However, it was Auckland's Sky Tower, standing at 240 metres tall, that hosted the first large-scale urban event. The five-minute display involved fireworks shot from multiple levels of the structure, dazzling onlookers and signalling the start of a global chain of celebrations.
Australia followed suit, with Sydney's world-famous fireworks over the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. As is tradition, a 'family fireworks' display was held earlier in the evening for those with young children. Meanwhile, in Asia, nations from Japan to the Philippines celebrated, though Hong Kong made the sombre decision to cancel its famous fireworks. This followed a devastating apartment fire in November 2025 that claimed 161 lives, the city's deadliest blaze in decades. Instead, authorities organised a more subdued light and music show.
Political Statements and European Festivities
The new year was not without its geopolitical tensions. In a televised address, Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted technological advances while reiterating claims over Taiwan, coinciding with large-scale military drills around the island. As the celebrations moved into European time zones, cities like Berlin welcomed 2026 amidst a picturesque snowfall, with revellers gathering at the Brandenburg Gate.
For the United Kingdom, the focal point remains the Mayor of London's New Year's Eve fireworks display. The event, watched by millions across the country, is a highlight of the capital's calendar. Access to prime viewing areas along the Embankment is tightly controlled, with tickets selling out months in advance and road closures beginning from early afternoon on the 31st.
A Global Countdown to 2026
The wave of celebrations finally reached the Americas in the early hours of GMT on New Year's Day. New York's Times Square event, featuring performances from stars like Diana Ross and Ciara, began at 5am GMT. This global journey, which started in the Pacific islands and swept through Auckland, Sydney, Tokyo, Berlin, and London, underscores the shared human tradition of marking time and hoping for a brighter future. From the 3,500 rockets over the Sky Tower to the anticipated displays over the Thames, the world once again united in a vibrant, noisy, and hopeful greeting to 2026.
