Auckland is set to welcome the new year in style, with a lighting show and fireworks across the city's landmarks.
The city council is gearing up for its annual New Year's Eve celebrations and is urging those heading into the CBD to plan ahead.
"With the city centre expected to be busy on New Year’s Eve, people are encouraged to plan travel in advance and be aware of changes to the public transport network on the night," Auckland Council said.
In the lead-up to 2023, the council said a lighting show on the Auckland Harbour Bridge and the Sky Tower will be on display for five minutes followed by fireworks, ending 2022 with a bang.
"Alongside Tāmaki Paenga Hira Auckland Museum, Te Ara I Whiti The Light Path, Queen St lights and other landmarks lighting up in teal."
A council spokesperson said both lighting and fireworks displays will be synced up to a special soundtrack.
"As the first city in the world to welcome the new year, Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland will again lead the world's celebrations."
And those living outside of the Super City shouldn't fear missing out - the countdown to 2023 will be broadcast on TV.
The council said Britomart Block Party New Year's Eve Festival will be in full swing across Galloway St and Britomart Square.
Business group Heart of the City has also put together a range of other events for Kiwis to enjoy as they welcome 2023, the council added.
And for those who want to celebrate the incoming New Year but can't tackle the 12am countdown, the light show across the Harbour Bridge and Sky Tower will begin at 9pm.
The council's recommended viewing spots:
- The waterfront
- Devonport
- Herne Bay
- Te Atatū Peninsula
- Bastion Point
- Northcote
- Mt Eden
- Bayswater Marina
Travel advice
Many streets across the city will be covered in people instead of vehicles. The council said streets in the CBD will be pedestrianised to "allow people to move freely".
From 11pm on December 31 until 1am New Year's day, several roads will be closed too - with some closures in place from 9pm.
The city's train network "will not run" on New Year's Eve but replaced by bus services instead.
"In the central city, bus services will be diverted around road closures and different stops will be used from 11pm until the end of service," the council said.
"There will be later ferry sailings and additional bus services after midnight to help people get home safely."
People using public transport are encouraged to stay up to date with Auckland Transport's app or journey planner.
