• Source:JND
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Auckland New Year 2025 Celebrations:  New Zealand's Auckland saw hundreds of revellers counting down to the New Year as it becomes the first major city to welcome 2025 while cheering at a spectacular downtown light show and colourful fireworks fired from Sky Tower, New Zealand's highest building.

In order to witness a light show honouring Auckland's Indigenous tribes and fireworks, thousands of people also flocked downtown or ascended the city's ring of volcanic peaks.

Countries in the South Pacific Ocean are the first to celebrate the New Year, with midnight in New Zealand falling 18 hours before the ball drops in Times Square in New York. Other cities throughout the world are gearing up for celebrations that highlight local cultures and customs, following a year marred by persistent conflict and political upheaval.

Sydney Welcomes 2025 In Style

More than a million people have gathered to attend the traditional fireworks display on Sydney Harbour, Australia, as New South Wales and Victoria have rung in the New Year. Robbie Williams, a British pop star, will lead a singalong, while Indigenous ceremonies and performances will honour the land's first people.

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Asia Preps For Year Of The Snake 

As temples and residences were thoroughly cleaned, including hitting "tatami" floor mats with large sticks, a large portion of Japan has closed its doors ahead of the country's most important holiday.

In the Asian zodiac, the forthcoming Year of the Snake is hailed as a time of rebirth, referencing the reptile's skin-shedding behaviour. Small figurines of smiling snakes and other snake-themed items have been on sale in Japan stores since January 1, when the country follows the zodiac cycle. Other Asian countries will begin celebrating the Year of the Snake later, when the Lunar New Year begins.