The countdown hit zero and throughout the Octagon people embraced their loved ones.
About 5000 people crossed the threshold into 2023 together in Dunedin’s town centre, which featured hours of live music and performances in the lead-up to the big moment.
Burns House was illuminated with lasers, which provided a large countdown timer and shared messages such as "we made it" and "a new beginning" once the clock hit midnight.
Things were a little different at the celebrations compared to previous years, with the concert stage turned towards the the lower half of the octagon, allowing a wider space for observers and dancers, and a complete lack of fireworks.
Although the lights provided a spectacle, many were unhappy with the lack of a traditional celebration to mark the new year.
Many took to social media to call the show "pathetic", "disappointing" and "a waste of time."
One likened it to "a Windows 95 screensaver."
Another called it a "step in the right direction" given the news of fires caused by fireworks around the region.
A variety of bands played throughout the night and an aerialist performance captured most of the crowd’s attention about 10pm.
She concluded the show by releasing silver glitter, which sparkled in the orange glow of the street lights.
Anna said hanging so high was "a bit scary", but she was glad with how it went.
Only three arrests were made throughout the night, Senior Sergeant Anthony Bond, of Dunedin, said.
The crowd was mainly family orientated and well behaved, he said.
The first arrest was a 27-year-old man who had been kicked out of a bar and "was being a nuisance of himself" just after 1am. He was arrested for disorder and would be warned.
The second was a 29-year-old man who was arrested and charged for assaulting a female in Princes St at 1.40am.
The final arrest was a 25-year-old man who was involved in a fight with another man and was already wanted as he was breaching his release conditions by drinking alcohol. He will appear in Dunedin District Court.
A 19-year-old man recorded a breath alcohol level of 748mcg and had a blood sample taken.
A 31-year-old man recorded a breath alcohol level of 587mcg while driving his friends home from a party and was charged. The man was also caught driving while suspended, which he was also charged for and his car was impounded.
In Oamaru celebrations, were held at the public gardens, where acrobats and musicians kept people entertained.
Queenstown featured a fireworks display with entertainment and local bands in Earnslaw Park.
In Wanaka a stage was set up at Roys Bay for entertainment with a firework display to herald in the new year.
Te Anau held its event in Lions Park, which featured a bonfire, food and entertainment.
