World rings in 2026 with fireworks and mass celebrations

FROM SYDNEY TO NEW YORK

- MPOST BUREAU

Fireworks burst over the Sydney Harbour Bridge during the New Year celebrations in Sydney

(AP/PTI)

Fireworks lit up skylines, city squares overflowed with crowds, and millions counted down together as countries across the world ushered in 2026 with colour, music and large public gatherings, marking the start of a new year after an eventful 2025.

The first major celebrations came from the Asia-Pacific region, where the new year arrived hours before Europe and the Americas. In Sydney, more than a million people lined the harbour foreshore and nearby vantage points as fireworks cascaded from the Sydney Harbour Bridge and barges on the water. Organisers said the display featured new lighting patterns and musicsynchronised sequences. Just across the Tasman Sea, New Zealand was among the very first nations to welcome 2026, with crowds gathering in Auckland, Wellington and other cities. In Auckland, fireworks erupted from the Sky Tower as people filled downtown streets and waterfront areas for countdown events.