By BBC News AUCKLAND in New Zealand became the first major world city to receive 2017. Fireworks erupted from the 328m (1,080ft) tall Sky Tower in the city centre. Polynesia and Pacific Islands including Samoa, Tonga and Kiribati entered 2017 at 10:00 GMT. Many cities around the world have stepped up security for New York’s Eve celebrations, after a year in which attackers drove lorries into crowds in Berlin and Nice. In Paris, Madrid and New York, concrete barriers and heavy goods vehicles will be used to block off central squares where crowds gather to celebrate.

By Boyd Lubasi The Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) last year gave motorists a 14 day grace period within which to acquire motor vehicle and trailer and road service licenses’ for 2017. RTSA Head of Public Relations Fred Mubanga has said all motorists and Public Service Vehicle Operators have been given an extension of up to January 14, 2017 to pay for the required licences. The renewal and payment of motor vehicle and trailer licences for 2017 is in accordance with the Provisions of the Road Traffic Act No.11 of 2002.