Auckland war memorial museum flags flying at half mast in mourning for the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Photo: RNZ / Nick Monro
Aucklanders are the mourning the death of the Queen today.
Many said the news of her death dominated social media stream this morning, others reflected on Queen Elizabeth's life and legacy, calling her a remarkable woman.
Students at Auckland University also reflected on the monarch's passing citing her importance to people across the world.
One student told RNZ she was curious to see how New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern would respond, as well as what would happen in the coming days.
Around Auckland's War Memorial Museum, the mood was somber as passersby sat quietly by the cenotaph.
One woman said it was as though a member of her own family had passed, while others said it was a joy to follow her journey through the years.
But among all the tributes there were some who were worried for the monarchy's future.
One man near the cenotaph said he had concerns given history of King Charles III and the next generation of royals.
"I don't think the majority of people would feel as sane or as stable as they used to," he said.
Others, however, shared positive memories of the Queen, with one passerby saying she had followed her, always.
"She was our Queen."