CNN kicked off 2014 with an epic fail.

The American news channel flashed a caption suggesting that Auckland is a city in Australia while showing highlights from New Year's celebrations around the world.

Eagle-eyed viewers quickly pounced on the error and shared screenshots on social media, with a number of annoyed Kiwi's urging the broadcaster to "check their facts".

CNN hasn't commented about the embarrassing mix-up.

@CNN Seriously? Auckland, Australia?!? Peter Jackson and Middle Earth are very disappointed! On behalf of US, my apologies to NZ! #CNNNYE — Leilani Munter (@LeilaniMunter) January 1, 2014

Geography is not the strong suit of @cnn - happy new year from Auckland Australia? #cnnfail pic.twitter.com/FjrIwgKj6P — Richard David Jordan (@richarddjordan) January 1, 2014

BREAKING NEWS! @cnn has moved Auckland to Australia for 2014! pic.twitter.com/6piMrSOjUW — Toph Miller (@tophmiller2) January 1, 2014

It's not the first time CNN has been a little confused about Australia, most notably during its coverage of Cyclone Yasi. And it's also not alone. American network NBC published a map showing the whole of Australia on fire, despite them being confined largely to New South Wales.