How the world rang in the new year in 2026 | ABC NEWS

New Year's Eve celebrations are continuing around the world, including in London. New Zealand was one of the first countries to reach midnight. Fireworks were launched from their tallest tower in the heart of Auckland. A few hours later, countries around Asia started to celebrate. The UAE said goodbye to 2025 with a record-breaking drone and fireworks show that lit up the skyline for 62 minutes. 2026 then made its way from the desert to the snow, reaching Europe. People in both Ukraine and Russia said they hope the New Year brings peace and an end to the ongoing war. On the eve of the holidays, we want to believe in something good, so we have to look for meaning. We have relatives who defend us, so we are waiting for them at home and want them to come back to us. I wish for peace, both for the country and the whole world. That's the main thing I wish for, and also for plans to come true in a positive way.