For the first time in many years, New Year's Eve in Te Anau was without its popular Lions Park party and midnight fireworks display, due to COVID-19 protocols.

However eyes turned skyward just after 9pm, when visitors and locals alike were entertained by a 10-minute impromptu aerial display over the lake by local pilot Ivan Krippner.

The world-class commercial aerobatics pilot and instructor is based in Te Anau and operates Wings & Water Te Anau.

The Reygaert family, (L-R, Sylven, Emily, Nick and Seb) were lucky enough to witness an impromptu aerobatic display over Lake Te Anau on New Year's Eve. Photo: Southland App