People have been flowing into cathedrals and churches around the country to pray, light candles and leave condolences in memory of the 29 Pike River miners.
People queued to pray in the memorial chapel of Christchurch Cathedral. The Dean says the cathedral is a sombre place as a steady stream of people come through its doors.
Up to 100 people have visited Auckland Cathedral, and a large number of people is expected at Thursday night's service.
In Hamilton, people have been going out of their way to visit the cathedral to pray and sign a memorial book.
In Wellington, bells tolled at the Cathedral of St Paul at midday and the doors then opened for members of the public, who were soon lighting candles for the miners and leaving written prayers. One written by a child says the miners are in her heart.
The Rev Frank Nelson says he opened the cathedral to the public because people need a place to go and express their grief.
He says there is deep sadness and shock throughout New Zealand.
He says bells are tolling at Anglican cathedrals throughout the country.
The New Zealand flag on the Beehive is flying at half-mast, as are flags on all other Government buildings.
