Bad weather prompted some New Zealand planners to cancel outdoor events, but a low-key fireworks display went ahead at Auckland's Sky Tower.

BBC: New Year's Eve 2012: Celebrations around the world

Elegantly designed in the form of a hexagonal tower with backlit capacitive touch controls, it allows users to access key functions at a touch.

ENGADGET: Creative announces Sound BlasterAxx wireless speakers with mics (update: hands-on!)