Sydney, Australia is first to kick off New Year

SYDNEY (WITI) -- It's 2014... in Sydney, Australia!

The land down under is one of the first countries in the world to begin the New Year -- right along with Samoa and New Zealand.

An outstanding display of fireworks, music and lights filled the skies over the Sydney Harbor. Nearly 1,000 fireworks were shot off from four of the renowned Sydney Opera House's sails.

Next up, Asia. Japan, South Korea and China are gearing up for the Near Year as the time-table makes its way west.