Sydney gears up for New Year's Eve

There is nothing like being prepared.

The City of Sydney this week sent out a press release on its preparations for New Year's Eve.

That is fully four months away, but hey.

Apparently, Sydney New Year’s Eve celebrations are coming back with a bang, with free access to many vantage points around the harbour and ticketing scrapped for all City of Sydney sites.

Restrictions introduced during the pandemic will be dropped, giving more people the opportunity to view and enjoy Sydney’s iconic celebrations.

The official New Year’s Eve website - sydneynewyearseve.com - has launched with details of all the City of Sydney’s vantage points, as well as key viewing locations extending from Cockatoo Island to Dover Heights and Manly.

The website includes details about each location’s entry points, opening and closing times, alcohol policy, capacity, food and beverage options and accessibility services.

More vantage points, location information road closures and transport details will be added to the website in the coming weeks.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the website and resources would help people to make a plan for the big night and explore the many ways to celebrate and watch the fireworks.

“Sydney New Year’s Eve is an iconic event and a wonderful celebration of our safe, harmonious and vibrant city,” Moore said.

"With Covid restrictions lifted and more parkland access available we anticipate there will be large crowds across the city keen to see the fireworks. I encourage everyone to check out sydneynewyearseve.com and plan ahead.

“Whether you’re watching at home or coming to join us along the foreshore, the event is a great way to reflect on the year past and look with hope to the year ahead. I hope locals and visitors alike enjoy the show!”

While the majority of sites around the harbour will be free, some will be ticketed to manage crowd numbers including the Cahill Expressway (which is balloted), Clark, Goat and Shark islands, Strickland Estate and Bradley’s Head (Mast Precinct, Athol Lawn, Amphitheatre).

Separate paid events around the harbour include at Taronga Zoo and the Royal Botanic Garden’s Foundation & Friends NYE Picnic.