India, Dec. 31 -- As the world prepared to turn the calendar page, New Zealand and Australia were once again among the first major countries to welcome the New Year, ushering in 2026 with dazzling fireworks and moments of reflection.

Auckland lit up first, with a spectacular five-minute fireworks display launched from multiple levels of the city's iconic Sky Tower.

Around 3,500 fireworks burst into the night sky from the 240-metre (787-foot) structure, New Zealand's tallest landmark, drawing thousands of locals and visitors to witness one of the world's earliest major countdowns.

Within New Zealand, the Chatham Islands marked the start of the New Year ahead of the mainland.

Located in the Pacific Ocean and sitting in the UTC+14 time z...