Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has expressed New Zealanders’ deep sadness at the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, describing Her Majesty as a monarch with an unwavering sense of duty.
“I know that I speak for people across New Zealand in offering our deepest sympathy to members of the Royal Family at the passing of the Queen. To us she was a much admired and respected monarch, to them she was a mother and grandmother,” Jacinda Ardern said.
“The Queen was a much-loved and admired monarch, whose record reign of 70 years is an absolute testament to her, and her commitment to us all. She was extraordinary.
“People throughout the world will be feeling an acute sense of loss at this time and New Zealanders most certainly share that grief. The Queen was a much-respected constant through unprecedented global change.
“The Queen visited New Zealand on ten occasions, with that notable first tour over the summer of 1953-54 when she and Duke of Edinburgh visited 46 centres and attended 110 functions.
“She was here to celebrate with us at events such as the 1974 Christchurch Commonwealth Games and the 1990 Auckland Commonwealth Games. She also mourned with us when we were hit by terrible tragedies such as the Tangiwai rail disaster and the February 2011 earthquake.
“I know a number of New Zealanders who had the privilege of meeting Her Majesty were struck by her keen interest, warmth and sense of humour. I remember in my very first meeting with Her Majesty being humbled by her intimate knowledge of New Zealand and its triumphs and challenges.
“I presented her with a gift from a New Zealander who had kept a photo of her visit more than 50 years prior. She recalled where it was taken and even what had made her laugh at the moment the photo was taken (see below).
“We will make arrangements for a State Memorial Service and many communities around the country will also want to show their respects and pay tribute at their own local events,” Jacinda Arden said.
New Zealand’s representation at Her Majesty’s funeral service will be confirmed shortly.
Flags will fly at half-mast to mark Her Majesty’s death. Further information about mourning observances will be available on the Governor-General’s website, at www.gg.govt.nz
The new King becomes New Zealand’s new Head of State immediately on the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
Opposition leader Christopher Luxon: National Party mourns death of Queen Elizabeth II
On behalf of the National Party, I express our sorrow and sadness at the news of the death in Scotland today of Queen Elizabeth II, ending a remarkable reign and a lifetime of service.
On the recent occasion of The Queen’s 70th Jubilee, I said that her unflinching dignity, compassion, and selflessness had given the Commonwealth a sense of security throughout her reign.
The strength and stability of Her Majesty’s leadership of the Commonwealth was a reassuring anchor for New Zealand and New Zealanders in uncertain and changing times. Through both the tumultuous and the good, her dedicated service embodied the values of duty, commitment, and strength.
I send my condolences to her family, who will also be mourning the loss of a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, including to our new head of state, King Charles III.
Mayor Goff on the death of Queen Elizabeth II
“On behalf of Auckland Council and the people of Auckland, I want to pass on to the Royal family our sympathy and sense of loss for the passing of Queen Elizabeth II,” Auckland Mayor Phil Goff said.
“For most of us, she was the Queen and Head of State for New Zealand over the entirety of our lives.
“She pledged herself in her early twenties to the service of her nation and the Commonwealth. It was a pledge that she honoured for her whole life.
“She served with commitment and integrity and provided continuity and stability as Head of State.
“It was a privilege to meet her personally on a number of occasions during her many visits to Auckland and New Zealand.
“We mark today the end of the Elizabethan era, which lasted over 70 years, and we mourn the loss of a leader who earned the respect of our nation and the world.”
Adele White, Chairperson, Howick Local Board
“Although she lived far away, Queen Elizabeth has always had a presence in the lives of New Zealanders. She had a life well-lived, working for her people until the very end. Our Queen will be sadly missed but leaves us with many precious memories.”
Howick 175 chair, Rev Dr Richard Waugh
“In this special anniversary year for Howick and districts, we express our sorrow at the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and recall her outstanding service to the Commonwealth, including Aotearoa New Zealand. Her Christian values, sacrificial service and life-time of public service has given us great constitutional stability in what can be an unstable world. We commend King Charles III. I recall meeting Prince Charles in 1994 when I chaired the Henderson & districts 150th celebrations and only three years ago I enjoyed a conversation with Prince William at the Anzac Day service in the city. Both impressed me with their people skills and genuine warmth. Long live the King.”
Books of condolence
- A book of condolence will be available for the public to sign at the Auckland Town Hall from 3pm – 5.30pm, Friday 9 September 2022 and from 10am on Saturday and Sunday. Please enter the building at the main entrance on Queen Street and be prepared to queue.
- Please visit ourauckland.nz for further information and plan your journey into the city centre carefully, taking into account the Essential Vehicle Area that sees this area of Queen Street closed to private vehicles and taxis.
- Condolence books will be available for signing at all 56 Auckland Council Libraries from 10am, Saturday 10 September. Visit our website for locations and hours.
Flags flying at half-mast
- All flags on Auckland Council buildings or council-managed locations are flying at half-mast, in accordance with guidance provided by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage.
Vector Lights – Auckland Harbour Bridge
- In line with Vector Lights policy and guidelines and with instruction from the Ministry of Culture and Heritage, Vector Lights will be turned off from tonight, Friday 9 September until further notice to mark New Zealand’s deepest mourning and respect.
- Vector Lights will remain turned off up to and including the day of Her Majesty’s State Memorial Service in New Zealand, except on Proclamation Day (being the day when the new Sovereign is announced officially) which Vector Lights will be turned on in its sparkling white state.
