Young New Zealanders paid tribute to the Queen in an incredibly moving haka.
On Friday, Newshub caught an impromptu haka that broke out underneath the half-mast flags outside Auckland Museum.
The haka was led by members of the Limited Service Volunteer programme - a motivational training course for youths at risk, led by the Ministry of Social Development and run by the NZDF- who wanted to pay their respects to the Queen.
The world is mourning Queen Elizabeth II, Britain's longest-reigning monarch, who died at age 96.
The NZDF said in a statement that she had many deep and abiding ties with New Zealand's military forces.
Chief of Defence Force Air Marshal Kevin Short said Her Majesty's ongoing dedication to her duties was an inspiration to the NZDF, particularly in the challenging times throughout her reign.
"Her dedication and commitment resonated with us all as it is the ultimate example of service which underpins everything we do as members of the New Zealand Defence Force," Air Marshal Short said.
"While there will be a sombre mood acknowledging Her Majesty’s death, it is also a time to appropriately celebrate her more than 70 years as our Monarch and her contribution to all walks of life and to the Armed Forces."
The Queen visited New Zealand 10 times during her reign and as head of state. She was the head of the NZDF and its three Services - Royal New Zealand Navy, New Zealand Army and Royal New Zealand Air Force.
"She holds colonelcies and captain-general roles in a number of Army units and we also appreciate that she was the first member of the Royal Family to join the Armed Services as a full-time member," Air Marshal Short said.
"While we celebrate and mourn her long and rich life, we also celebrate the accession of the new King."
The NZDF will play a major role in the 11 days of commemoration events over the coming days including the State Memorial Service, and ceremonies surrounding the accession of the new King.
Flags outside all government and public buildings are flying at half-mast across the country until the Queen's State Memorial in New Zealand as a sign of respect for Her Majesty.
