The Christchurch Fire Service says it will not take part in a memorial service to commemorate the second anniversary of the February earthquake and will hold a private service instead.
The Christchurch City Council is marking the anniversary with a Civic Memorial Service on 22 February in Latimer Square.
Some 185 people died as a result of the 6.3-magnitude quake that severely damaged parts of the city including the CBD.
Greg Crawford, assistant area commander for the Christchurch Metro Fire Service, says a private service will be held at Addington at noon for firefighters and their families, with about 700 people expected to attend.
He says about 163 firefighters and staff will be presented with a red and black Canterbury Earthquake ribbon in recognition of their work during the quakes.
Mr Crawford says the separate service is not meant as a deliberate snub to the official service.
