Australia and New Zealand were among the first nations to welcome the New Year as the clock struck midnight.
As the New Year festivities unfolded in the Asia-Pacific region, it was the South Pacific nations that ushered in the arrival of 2025 first.
Auckland, New Zealand, proudly claimed the title of the first major city to countdown to the new year. Thousands gathered to enjoy a dazzling fireworks display ignited from the iconic Sky Tower, alongside a mesmerizing light show illuminating downtown.
Others ascended the city’s volcanic peaks to witness the fireworks from high above, complemented by a light display honoring New Zealand’s Indigenous tribes. This celebration came after a year marked by significant protests advocating for Māori rights in the nation of five million.
Meanwhile, across the Tasman Sea, vibrant fireworks erupted off the Sydney Harbour Bridge as Australians celebrated the New Year in style.
More than a million revelers flocked to the iconic Sydney Harbour, with British pop star Robbie Williams captivating the crowd during a memorable singalong.
The Sydney celebration was further enriched by Indigenous ceremonies and performances, respectfully acknowledging the original inhabitants of the land.
As the world continued to ring in the New Year, various cities prepared for their own local celebrations, showcasing cultural traditions against a backdrop of a year marked by conflict and political challenges.
Asia Welcomes the Year of the Snake
In Japan, hundreds of locals and tourists gathered at the historic grounds of Tokudai-Ji temple in Tokyo to mark the new beginning.
At the stroke of midnight, a wooden pole was swung against the enormous temple bell using a rope, an exhilarating part of welcoming the new year.
This ancient bell tolling tradition resonates with Buddhists, who believe that striking the bell 108 times helps cleanse humans of the 108 worldly desires they are believed to possess.
As Japan prepared for its most significant holiday, many temples and homes underwent thorough cleaning, which included the traditional practice of swatting tatami mats with large sticks.
The upcoming Year of the Snake in the Asian zodiac symbolizes rebirth, mirroring the snake’s ability to shed its skin. Shops throughout Japan have been bustling with snake-themed merchandise and charming figures representing smiling snakes, celebrating the zodiac cycle commencing on January 1st. Other regions in Asia will observe the Year of the Snake later, aligning with the Lunar New Year.
As different time zones around the globe continue to celebrate, American Samoa stands as one of the last places to embrace 2025, a full 24 hours after New Zealand.
Photo credit & article inspired by: Euronews
