[b Memorial services in Auckland and Ngaruawahia were held on Friday to remember the life of Nelson Mandela.
South African High Commissioner Zodwa Lallie. Photo: RNZ
The service in Auckland was organised by the South African High Commission.
About 800 people were expected at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Parnell, where a mix of politicians and South African dignitaries will pay tribute to the anti-apartheid leader and the country's first black president, who died on 5 December aged 95.
Dame Catherine Tizard, Labour MP Phil Goff and representatives from the South African community were among those speaking at the service which opened with African drums and music and a karakia from kaumatua Grant Hawke of Ngati Whatua Orakei.
Those who arrived early wrote messages in tribute books and spoke of a man they respected greatly.
The other service was held at 4pm at Turangawaewae in Ngaruawahia. South Africa's High Commissioner Zodwa Lallie attended both.
