Auckland in New Zealand has welcomed in the new year with its annual vibrant fireworks display at the city’s iconic Sky Tower.

Residents of the Pacific nation of Kiribati kicked off the new year an hour earlier.

Many millions of people expected to take part in celebrations around the world in the coming hours. Huge crowds are gathering in Sydney in Australia for one of the world’s most spectacular New Year’s fireworks displays. Just before midnight there – 13:00 GMT – eight tonnes of pyrotechnics will be launched from two of Australia’s most recognisable landmarks – the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.

The last place will be Baker Island – only 650 miles away from Kiribati, but 26 hours behind, due to a time zones quirk.

Here’s some images from the display: