New Zealand has been the first country in the world to welcome 2021
New Zealand has been the first country in the world to welcome 2021
1 January 2021
Thousands gathered around Auckland's waterfront for the countdown and fireworks display from the Sky Tower.
Similar scenes to those in Auckland have been repeated in many parts of the country.
Most seem to have gone without a hitch, although riot police were called to the Whangamata Surf Club where thousands of teenagers had gathered, some on the roof throwing bottles.
Sydney has rung in 2021 with a shortened fireworks display on a vacated harbour, with police declaring their satisfaction with compliance to coronavirus-prompted public health orders.
Melbourne's fireworks were cancelled weeks ago, as were displays in Canberra, Brisbane and Adelaide.
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