Residents camp out overnight in the rain for best Syd NYE firework spot
Sydney's most popular New Year's Eve vantage points have begun to fill ahead of a spectacular fireworks display to ring in 2018.
More than a million people line the city's famous harbour every year for the extravaganza and this year's $7 million show features more than 100,000 individual pyrotechnic effects.
The most sought-after viewing positions are likely to be snatched up early, including space at the Sydney Opera House which opened at 7.30am.
Hundreds of residents camped out overnight in the rain to secure the best spots.
Prime positions include Circular Quay, which grants spectators a front-row seat for the colourful explosions to be launched off the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Mary Booth Reserve on the northern side.
The most eager spectators will be in for a long wait in mostly pleasant conditions, with forecasters predicting a top of 25C and morning showers to clear in the afternoon and evening.
Australian Hollywood star Hugh Jackman has added a touch of fame to the display, co-designing one particular gold effect to the music of renowned indigenous musician Dr G Yunupingu.
The festivities and extraordinary crowd numbers mean it's also the biggest operation of the year for NSW Police.
Officers will be patrolling on foot, on horseback, on the water and in the air, while dozens of riot squad members armed with semi-automatics will be on hand if any major incidents unfold.
