Revellers cheer in New Year around world despite bad weather forcing cancellations in UK

For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Revellers have cheered in the New Year around the world – including millions across the UK, despite bad weather forcing the cancellation of many celebrations. open image in gallery Fireworks light up the sky over the London Eye in central London during New Year celebrations Auckland became the first major city to celebrate, as thousands thronged downtown or climbed the city's ring of volcanic peaks for a vantage point for the fireworks as well as a light display recognising Indigenous people. open image in gallery Fireworks explode over Australia’s Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge during New Year’s Eve celebrations on Tuesday A storm bringing bitter weather put a dampener on festivities in the UK, with a number of celebrations scrapped. open image in gallery Fireworks explode during the New Year celebrations in Bangkok, Thailand Rome's traditional New Year's Eve festivities signal the start of Pope Francis' Holy Year – the once-every-quarter-century celebration projected to bring some 32 million pilgrims to the Eternal City in 2025.