Happy New Year! It’s now 2021 in New Zealand

Auckland - Country among first in the world to ring in the New Year

New Zealand has joined the list of the first countries in the world to welcome 2021. The country, which has won plaudits for its handling of the coronavirus, followed an hour later with large crowds gathered in Auckland to watch a fireworks display.

Although still isolated by international border closures, months of zero recorded cases in the community has let life in New Zealand return to relative normality. Due to its geographical position – close to the International Date Line, New Zealand is the first nation to welcome the New Year.

New Zealand’s firework display went ahead as the country allowed crowds to gather for the celebrations.

New Zealand Health Minister Chris Hipkins said in an earlier statement: “This is a big milestone. New Zealanders have once again through their collective actions squashed the virus.