Queen Elizabeth II dies: Updates, reaction from New Zealand, world leaders

Queen Elizabeth II, Britain's longest-reigning monarch, has died aged 96.

The Royal Family confirmed the news in a press statement on Friday morning (NZ Time).

"The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon," the family said.

King Charles III has succeeded his mother as the monarch.

"The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow."

These live updates have finished. You can read Newshub's obituary here.

8:05pm - Australians on Friday mourned the death of Queen Elizabeth, but republicans also revived a longstanding debate on ending the country's association with the 1000-year-old monarchy.

The British monarch is the head of state in Australia, among 14 realms outside the United Kingdom, although the role is largely ceremonial.

Australia has long debated the need to keep a distant monarch. A 1999 referendum in Australia on becoming a republic lost with 55 percent of voters opposed.

"Our thoughts are with her family and all who loved her. Now Australia must move forward," said Australian Greens Party leader Adam Brandt, a prominent republican.

"We need Treaty with First Nations people, and we need to become a Republic," he wrote on Twitter.

Bandt was accused, even by some fellow republicans, of being disrespectful by bringing up the issue just hours after the queen's death.

"Not the right time to call for a republic irrespective of where you sit on the monarchy/ republic spectrum. Not respectful after her long life of service," one of Bandt's followers said in response to the tweet.

Bandt's office did not immediate respond to an email seeking comment.

- Reuters

7:35pm - Britain's King Charles will address a nation in mourning on Friday (UK time) following the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth, the only monarch most Britons ever knew.

Charles, who raced to be by the side of the queen at her Scottish home on Thursday, was due to travel back to London with his wife Camilla, now Queen Consort, before meeting the Prime Minister and making a televised statement.

- Reuters

7:20pm - Auckland's Sky Tower has turned its lights off to mark the Queen's death.

6:25pm - Newshub's coverage of Queen Elizabeth's death is in the video player at the top of the page.

We're covering her life and reign, how New Zealand reacted to her death, what changes now Charles is King, and more.

Refresh the page if you can't see the video, or click here.

6:16pm - The gun salute has now finished.

6:10pm - Here is a photo from the Wellington waterfront.

6:05pm - Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is watching the gun salute from the balcony of the Beehive.

6pm - The gun salute has now begun. It is expected to last at least 16 minutes.

5:50pm - The livestream of the gun salute is now embedded below. Click here if you can't see it.

It will begin at 6pm.

5:30pm - A 96-gun salute will be held on Wellington's waterfront to mark the Queen's death.

The salute will be 96 rounds - one to mark each year of Queen Elizabeth II's life - and is expected to last 16 minutes. It will begin at 6pm.

We will have a livestream of this.

Read more about the gun salute here.

5:45pm - Condolence books are available around the country for people who want to pay tribute following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Many councils are making condolence books available at local libraries or council offices.

Read the full story here.

5:25pm - A spokesperson for the Prime Minister has just confirmed that on Sunday September 11, there will be a short Cabinet meeting, followed by an Executive Council meeting and then the Proclamation of Accession ceremony on the steps of Parliament.

The Proclamation of Accession ceremony will occur at 12:30pm. This ceremony is the formal method of sharing the news that the monarch has died and the heir has acceded to the throne.

The immediate Parliament forecourt area will be available to invited guests only, but the public is welcome to gather on the grounds.

5:15pm - National Party leader Christopher Luxon has posted a video to Twitter paying tribute to the Queen.

He said while we feel great loss and sadness, it's also a day of great reflection on "a life incredibly well-lived".

"The Queen lived her life with a mission and a purpose. She showed great determination, great care and compassion for her people, and great sense of duty to do her job to the very best of her ability each and every day," Luxon said.

5:05pm - A memorial exhibition for Queen Elizabeth II has opened at Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa National Library in Wellington, following her death.

"This tribute to Queen Elizabeth II draws on the pictorial records held by the Alexander Turnbull Library, Archives New Zealand and Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision. These collections are richest in illustrating the visit during that 'royal summer' of 1953–54, so images from that tour are predominant in this 26-image exhibition," the Department of Internal Affairs said.

The public is welcome to view the exhibition, which is free, on the ground floor during National Library opening hours of 9am to 5pm on weekdays and 9am to 1pm on Saturday.

The exhibition, in te reo Māori and English, can also be viewed online here.

A condolence book is in the National Library main foyer for visitors to pay their respects.

4:55pm - The following is a statement from former Prime Minister Dame Jenny Shipley:

I have a feeling of profound sadness at the death of our Queen, yet a deep sense of gratitude for her life of selfless service.

Her calming presence across 70 years of global change gave confidence, continuity, and stability to those in the Commonwealth but equally importantly to other world powers and their leaders. She will be remembered with great admiration and respect by many.

I met her on several occasions, the most memorable of which was a lunch with she and her family at Sandringham as part of a visit to the UK in January 1999.

It is an experience and memory that Burton and I both cherish.

From a personal perspective she was such fun, curious and engaging, and interested in her prime ministers and their families, taking pleasure in being surrounded by her family members including her precious dogs who enjoyed being part of the occasion as well.

In political terms she showed a deep interest and exceptional knowledge of the issues facing New Zealand while also focussed on the future of the Commonwealth and the wellbeing of its people.

I remember her family in this moment as they face the loss of their beloved mother, grandmother and great granny and trust they will be comforted in the knowledge that millions of people around the world share their grief and extend our prayers and condolences to them.

4:40pm - China's President Xi Jinping has sent condolences to King Charles III over the death of Queen Elizabeth, state media reported on Friday.

- Reuters

4:35pm - The accession of King Charles to the British throne has stirred renewed calls from politicians and activists for former colonies in the Caribbean to remove the monarch as their head of state and for Britain to pay slavery reparations.

Charles succeeds his mother, Queen Elizabeth, who ruled for 70 years and died on Thursday afternoon. 

The prime minister of Jamaica said his country would mourn Elizabeth, and his counterpart in Antigua and Barbuda ordered flags to half-staff until the day of her burial.

But in some quarters there are doubts about the role a distant monarch should play in the 21st century. Earlier this year, some Commonwealth leaders expressed unease at a summit in Kigali, Rwanda, about the passage of leadership of the 54-nation club from Elizabeth to Charles. 

And an eight-day tour in March by now heir-to-the-throne Prince William and his wife, Kate, to Belize, Jamaica and the Bahamas was marked by calls for reparation payments and an apology for slavery.

- Reuters

4:20pm - The New Zealand House of Representatives will adjourn following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Leader of the House Chris Hipkins says on Tuesday September 13, the House will mark her death. 

A message from Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro will be read by the Speaker, to which the House will reply. Party leaders and other members will have the opportunity to speak.

The House will then adjourn for the rest of the week.

A further update will be provided once details of the memorial services have been confirmed, Hipkins added.

4:10pm - The official website of the Royal Family has been updated following the Queen's death.

King Charles III is now listed as His Majesty The King.

An online book of condolences has also opened for people to sign and mourners can visit the Royal Family website to leave their messages.

4:05pm - Sir Elton John has paid a gushing tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at his concert in Toronto.

"We have the saddest news about the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth," he said from the stage. 

"She was an inspiring person to be around — I've been around her and she was fantastic.

"She led the country through some of our greatest and darkest moments with grace, decency and a genuine care and warmth.  

"I'm almost 75 — she's been with me all my life and I feel very sad that she won't be with me anymore. 

"But I'm glad she's at peace, and I'm glad she's at rest, and she deserves it because she's worked bloody hard."

Read the full story here.

3:50pm - Below is a photo taken of Queen Elizabeth II during her tour of New Zealand in 1953 - 1954, and gifted to her when Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern had an audience in 2018 in London.

This is the photo the Prime Minister referenced in her press conference earlier this morning.

The New Zealand Prime Minister at the time was Sidney Holland, who people were calling Sid. It was this informality between the public and the Prime Minister that the Queen recalled she was laughing about. 

3:35pm - Supercars' return to Auckland was marked by a moment's silence, as Pukekohe Park Raceway paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II.

As the sporting world paid tribute to her, with names across all codes paying their respects, Supercars was no different as the Australian championship returned to New Zealand for the first time since 2019.

Before the start of Friday's first practice session, the entire racing paddock as well as the fans gathered in attendance observed a moment of silence in remembrance.

Read the full story here.

3:25pm - Speaker of the New Zealand House of Representatives, Adrian Rurawhe, has acknowledged the Queen's death. Below is the full statement from his office:

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Rt Hon Adrian Rurawhe, has expressed his condolences for the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

"On behalf of the Office of Speaker and New Zealand House of Representatives, I express my condolences and deepest sympathies to the Royal Family.

"When the Queen was crowned in 1953, New Zealand was a very different place, and while our nation has changed immensely over the past 70 years she has been a constant guide for our Parliament and our people."

The Sovereign is a constituent part of the New Zealand Parliament. As the Head of State, the Sovereign is integral to New Zealand's constitutional arrangements, including giving Royal assent to bills, summoning and dissolving Parliament and delivering the Speech from the Throne at the opening of Parliament.

"I acknowledge all her Majesty has done for our country during her reign. Of particular note is her acknowledgement of efforts to resolve historical grievances between Māori and the Crown, such as when she delivered a personal apology from the British Crown to the Tainui people in 1995.

"For many New Zealanders, including myself, Queen Elizabeth II is the only Sovereign we have ever known. She will be commemorated and remembered as kōtuku—the white heron—in recognition of the reverence many New Zealanders have for her."

The House of Representatives will sit on Tuesday 13 September to acknowledge the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the succession of King Charles III.

Flags at Parliament will remain flying at half-mast to mark the Queen's death.

3:10pm - Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jim Bolger has paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, saying she served her 70-year reign for "so well and so long".

Bolger, who met the Queen on several occasions, said she lived a "remarkable" life.

"[There is] also sympathy for her family, because while she's a huge international figure, the late Queen, she was a mother and a grandmother, and all the family members will feel the grief that all family members feel at the loss of a loved member," he told Newshub.

The Queen visited New Zealand in 1995 when Bolger chaired the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. He said it was "wonderful" to have her in Aotearoa.

Read the full story and watch his full interview here.

3pm - An impromptu haka was just performed at Auckland Museum by limited service volunteers.

They are part of a programme for youths at risk, led by the Ministry of Social Development and run by the NZDF.

They were always meant to come to the museum today and the youth wanted to pay their respects under a flag that's flying at half mast.

2:50pm - The world of sport reacted to the death of Queen Elizabeth on Thursday with a raft of cancellations across cricket, golf, rugby and cycling, while others paid tribute by holding a minute's silence.

The queen, Britain's longest-reigning monarch, died peacefully at her home in Scotland aged 96.

The second day of the third and deciding cricket test between England and South Africa at the Oval on Friday was suspended as a mark of respect, while matches in the domestic Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy were called off.

The English Football League (EFL) cancelled two games scheduled for Friday, while West Ham United fans sang a rousing rendition of "God Save the Queen" before their Europa Conference League match against Romanian side FCSB on Thursday.  A minute's silence was observed at Europa League games featuring British teams and players wore black armbands.

"A determination regarding the remainder of this weekend's scheduled fixtures will be made following a review of the official mourning guidance, in addition to further consultation with DCMS and other sports on Friday morning," the EFL said.

The Scottish Championship game on Friday between Cove Rangers and Dundee was also postponed by the Scottish Professional Football League.

British media reported that the Premier League is also likely to decide on the weekend's fixtures on Friday.

At Wentworth, which is hosting the BMW PGA golf Championship, the flagship event of Europe's DP World Tour, play was suspended on Thursday, and organisers cancelled Friday's second round.

"She was truly an inspiration to people the world over ... no play will take place at the BMW PGA Championship on Friday and the golf course and practice facilities will be closed," the Tour said in a statement.

Peter Forster, captain of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club, said the queen's 70-year patronage was a "great honour".

"Following her accession in 1952, Her late Majesty graciously accepted the Patronage of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews ... although not a golfer, Her late Majesty's 70-year patronage of the club was a great honour for its members," said Forster.

In cycling, the Tour of Britain called off Friday's sixth stage before also cancelling the weekend's remaining stages.

Saracens' game against Northampton Saints in the Premiership Rugby Cup later on Thursday was postponed while Scottish Rugby has suspended all domestic watches this weekend.

The British Horseracing Authority also suspended all events for two days. Horse racing was the queen's passion and she was a regular race-goer as well as an owner and breeder of racing stock.

The U.S.-based National Football League observed a moment of silence before the start of the regular-season opening game between the Los Angeles Rams and the Buffalo Bills.

The U.S. Open tennis championships and motor racing's Formula One will also observe silences.

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe hailed the queen for her role in the successful staging of the 2012 London Olympics.

"In the most demanding of roles, she has shown exceptional leadership, grace, wisdom and fortitude, touching us across the full fabric of society, including sport," said Coe.

"I will never forget her total commitment to the success of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games." 

 - Reuters

2:30pm - While personal style may be seen as a small, if not trivial part of Queen Elizabeth's legacy, the impact the Royal Family has on fashion cannot be overstated.

From Princess Diana to Kate Middleton and the Queen herself, the Royals' carefully chosen attire can reflect changing times and attitudes, as well as capturing the zeitgeist of their era. 

Queen Elizabeth II, Britain's longest-reigning monarch, passed away peacefully at Balmoral Castle in Scotland on Thursday, September 8 at the age of 96. 

In remembrance, we've collated a small selection of the iconic ensembles she wore throughout her life in homage to her classic yet unique style.

2:15pm - The Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet told Newshub the Queen's Birthday will now be known as the King's Birthday.

2:10pm - The United Kingdom is expected to declare a bank holiday for Queen Elizabeth's funeral. 

Newshub understands there are no immediate plans for a public holiday in New Zealand, but should there be? 

Vote in our straw poll here.

2pm - In case you missed it, you can watch the Governor-General's full speech here. She spoke around midday on Friday.

1:45pm - With Queen Elizabeth's death, her son, Charles, has automatically become King. But the full accession of a new monarch is not a short process. 

Under the UK constitution, a sovereign succeeds to the throne the moment his or her predecessor dies, before even being proclaimed to the people, and there is no interregnum.

The new monarch is officially proclaimed King or Queen by a special body called the Accession Council, to which members of the Privy Council - a group of several hundred selected royal advisers including members of the cabinet - are summoned.

Read more here.

1:30pm - Queen Elizabeth II was, of course, New Zealand's Head of State. So what does her death mean for our country? 

Her face appears on banknotes, we have a public holiday to celebrate her, and she is seen on our passports. Here's what could be about to change.

1:20pm - A statement from the Waitangi Treaty Grounds about a memorial for Queen Elizabeth II: 

A memorial for Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II has been established at Waitangi Treaty  Grounds beneath the pōhutukawa tree she planted on her first visit to Waitangi as Queen in 1953.  Members of the public are invited to pay their respects over the weekend, and all flowers left at the  memorial will be composted and returned to the gardens within Waitangi Treaty Grounds.  

There was a special connection between Queen Elizabeth II and Waitangi. Since the death of her  father King George VI on 6 February 1952, the anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's ascension to the  throne has always been on Waitangi Day. 

Queen Elizabeth II visited Waitangi four times. Her visit in 1953 was the first time a reigning  sovereign set foot in Aotearoa New Zealand. She visited again in 1963 after arriving at the Bay of  Islands on the Royal Yacht Britannia, escorted by HMNZS Otago. In 1974 the Queen attended the  first New Zealand Day celebrations at Waitangi where the first challenge on her arrival was  performed by Waihoroi Shortland, currently Pou Tikanga for Waitangi National Trust.  

Her last visit to Waitangi was for the 150th anniversary of the signing of Te Tiriti in 1990. During that  visit she made her first ever formal apology: "Today we are strong enough and honest enough to…  admit that the Treaty has been imperfectly observed. I look upon it as a legacy of promise. It can be  a guide to… all those whose collective sense of justice, fairness and tolerance will shape the future." 

Chairman of Waitangi National Trust, Pita Tipene, reflected on his memories of Queen Elizabeth:  "He toka tu moana - an ocean rock, long buffeted by the elements, standing strong, proud and  resolute."  

1:15pm - As the UK mourns the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, who died aged 96, there are questions about what comes next.

Whilst many of them are questions of state, and matters of pomp and ceremony, there's some speculation as to what will happen to the Queen's beloved dogs.

At the time of her death, the Queen had four dogs.

Read more about what may happen to her dogs now here.

1:05pm - Former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark has recalled the first time she met Queen Elizabeth and the moment that "left quite a memory on me".

In an interview with Newshub, following the 96-year-old monarch's death, Clarke recalled first meeting the Queen in 1990 when she was Deputy Prime Minister and Health Minister.

Clark said the Queen was visiting New Zealand while the country was celebrating 150 years since the Treaty of Waitangi signings.

Read more here.

12:50pm - Once called a "Rottweiler" by the woman she replaced, Camilla, the second wife of the new British king, Charles, may never have fully won over the public but she is now Queen Consort, holding a title few would have thought conceivable 25 years ago.

What do we know about about Camilla, the wife of King Charles III and the new Queen Consort?

Read more here.

12:40pm - The Governor-General and the Prime Minister have signed the condolence book at Parliament.

12:35pm - Britain's national anthem has been changed following the Queen's death. 

In honour of the new ruler the anthem has been changed from "God Save the Queen" to "God Save the King". 

The rest of the song will stay the same with the word Queen simply being swapped for King. 

12:29pm: Commissioner Shadrach Rolleston has paid tribute to the Queen on behalf of the Tauranga City Council. 

"Queen Elizabeth II lived a life of service with dignity and grace," Shadrach said. 

"Her Majesty guided Brittan and the Commonwealth through many turbulent times and was a symbol of strength and unity for millions.

"For many in our community the Queen has been a constant presence, and people will no doubt want to express their deepest condolences to the royal family." 

Tauranga City Council will have books of condolences available for the community to sign from tomorrow at Council libraries across the city. 

12:22pm - The New Zealand Treasury has paid tribute to her Majesty the Queen. 

12:17pm - Dame Kiro said she was woken at 5am this morning and made aware of the Queen's death. 

"I was contemplative,' Kiro said. "I knew she was aged but had hoped she might have been with us for longer. So we are prepared, we knew this moment was coming and I am grateful for the opportunity to celebrate her service and long reign, having done that recently."

She said her thoughts were with the Queen's family.

12:13pm - The New Zealand Defence Force says there will be a 96-gun salute at 6pm on the Wellington waterfront in front of Te Papa to honour the Queen. 

12:10pm - Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex have paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II.

The website for Harry and Meghan’s Archewell Foundation has been updated to display a tribute.

"In loving memory of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 1926-2022,” it reads.

Harry, the grandson of the monarch, and his wife have not yet issued an official statement.

Read more here. 

12pm - Dame Cindy said she was struck by how comfortable the Queen was with using Zoom during one of their conversations. She said the Queen put her at ease and they spoke about the number of Governor-Generals who have served under her.

The Governor-General says her expectation is that she will travel to the UK along with the Prime Minister to the Queen's funeral. They expect to travel during the middle of next week.

Following the Queen's funeral in the UK, there will be a state memorial service in New Zealand, she says.

11:55am - The Governor-General says at 12:15pm she will head to Parliament and then sign a condolence book with the Prime Minister. 

Later in the afternoon, Government House staff will gather at a tree to lay a wreath and flowers. The Queen planted the tree when she was in New Zealand.

At 6pm, Dame Cindy will join with the Defence Force for a gun salute at the Wellington waterfront. This is a public event.

She wants to keep New Zealanders informed with the latest updates.

Dame Cindy believes Kiwis will remember the Queen for her service and as someone who was "dignified". She served right up until her death on Friday morning.

11:50am - Dame Kiro is now speaking to media. She has just arrived on a flight from Auckland after visiting Samoa. She says it's been a "full-on time", but it is with "enormous sorrow" to hear about the death of the Queen. She sends condolences to the Queen's family.

The Governor-General describes the Queen as a "constant" who provided "stability" to New Zealanders. The Queen was a symbol of service.

Dame Cindy spoke to the Queen via Zoom after she became Governor General and twice in person beforehand.

She had a "very enjoyable" hour-long meeting with King Charles in July when she was in the UK for the Platinum Jubilee.

11:45am - Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro was scheduled to speak at 11:30am, but she is yet to arrive. We will stream her press conference above when she does.

11:35am - The Eiffel Tower's lights went dark early on Thursday night in tribute to Queen Elizabeth, with Parisians recalling a British monarch who anchored her country through upheaval with poise and grace for longer than many have lived.

The 1997 death in Paris of Princess Diana prompted Elizabeth to endure some of the darkest days of her 70 years on the throne, when the palace appeared disconnected from the outpouring of public grief.

At the Flame of Liberty monument above the underpass where Diana was killed, some passers-by paused to remember Britain's longest-reigning monarch.

"She was the person who defined Britain," said optician Salima Gersa.

Another woman, Valerie, a museum worker, said Elizabeth's death marked "the end of an era", describing her as "an extraordinary woman who saw the world around her crumble."

Others paid tribute to a monarch who remained a symbol of stability and continuity for Britons at a time of relative national economic decline, while also adapting the ancient institution of monarchy to the demands of the modern era.

"(Her death marks) a tragic moment, but she had a great life and has a great legacy," said U.S. tourist Greg Shanon. 

- Reuters

11:20am - We have just received this statement from the Reserve Bank, confirming no immediate impact on New Zealand's banknotes and coins from the Queen's death:

There is no immediate impact on New Zealand’s banknote and coins designs and cash use as a result of a change in Sovereign. All existing coins and $20 banknotes in circulation featuring Queen Elizabeth the Second remain legal tender. It will be several years before we need to introduce coins featuring King Charles the Third, and longer until stocks of $20 notes are exhausted.

• All banknotes and coins issued by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua bearing images of the Queen continue to have exactly the same status and value as before.
• All coin stock for a denomination showing the Queen will be issued before new stock goes out with her successor’s image. This is a few years away.
• Banks, retailers, individuals and others using or handling cash will not need to do anything differently when we introduce new coins bearing the image of the King.
• We will let everyone know when new coins are due to enter circulation.
• The Queen is likely to remain on $20 banknotes issued from existing stock for many years to come. We manufacture these notes infrequently and do not plan to destroy stock or shorten the life of existing banknotes just because they show the Queen. This would be wasteful and poor environmental practice.           
• We will prepare to change out the image on coins for one approved by King Charles working in conjunction with our mints who produce for multiple Commonwealth countries.
• Coins bearing the King’s image will have the same physical characteristics as those showing the Queen. We will work with industry to help ensure machines such as self-service checkouts, vending and change machines can accept and issue them alongside the old ones. There will be no need to separate coins of the same denomination with different Sovereigns on them.
• The transition to new imagery will take several years because we always hold sufficient stock to ensure that our ability to issue cash will not be affected by supply chain disruptions, a sudden increase in demand, or loss of access to vaults or stock for any reason. We also take advantage of the most cost-effective pricing and supply arrangements from the mints and printers we use in the United Kingdom and Canada.

11:10am - The Governor-General, Dame Cindy Kiro, will address media at 11:30am. Newshub will bring that press conference to you live on Three and in the video component at the top of this page.

It's likely that she and the Prime Minister will travel to the United Kingdom for the Queen's funeral. No date has been given for that yet, but it's expected to be within the next 10 days.

10:55am - NZ Post can confirm there will be no changes to its general stamp issues as a result of the Queen’s passing.

10:50am - Former Prime Minister Sir John Key has released this statement:

"It was with profound sadness that I learned today of the news of the death of The Queen.

"As Prime Minister I had the privilege of meeting The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh and many members of their family on several occasions, most memorably when The Queen and Duke hosted my wife Bronagh and I, and our children, at Balmoral in 2013. That was an unforgettable experience and what most stays with me is The Royal Family’s genuine interest in other people and their unwavering dedication to the welfare of the Commonwealth.

"Over 70 years The Queen has been a steady and supportive presence in the lives of New Zealanders. From thousands of living room coffee tables where her face has graced the cover of millions of magazines – to her televised state openings of Parliament and big ceremonial occasions including Royal weddings and funerals in Britain, she has simply always been there for generations of New Zealanders.

"Her dedication to public service was a lifelong and heartfelt commitment from which she never wavered. We all acknowledge that service, but also remember her as a mother, grandmother and great grandmother to a family whose life events have, in some way, touched our own families.

"I am grateful for The Queen’s counsel to me when I was Prime Minister, and for her service to New Zealand and to the Commonwealth. King Charles’ loss is enormous but he has had throughout his life the benefit of the example and guidance of a monarch who was without equal."

10:45am - New Zealand's Department of Internal Affairs is reassuring Kiwis that their passports will continue to be valid following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

"New Zealand passports continue to be valid despite the passing of Queen Elizabeth II who appears on our passports as Head of State.

"New Zealand passports are still current, valid and can be used for travel and as proof of identification. They will continue to be valid until they expire.

"New Zealand passports refer to Her Majesty on the inside cover because New Zealand is a member of the British Commonwealth and Queen Elizabeth II is our Head of State. 

"In the future passports will be issued in the name of the new sovereign. All passports issued until then will bear the name of Her Majesty."

10:35am - Former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark tells Newshub it is "very sad news" that Queen Elizabeth II has died. She says it is a time for reflection. She remembers many occasions when she met the Queen, including when she was in New Zealand.

Queen Elizabeth II worked to the day she died, Clark says. She notes that the Queen had just met with incoming UK Prime Minister Liz Truss just two days ago and had a smile on her face. She said it symbolised 70 years of total dedication to her role.

Clark has also met King Charles a number of times, including tea with her at Clarence House and in New Zealand.

"I like Prince Charles and I admire the fact that over the years he has picked up issues around nature and sustainability, long before this was particularly popular."

She expects he won't be an as active commentator as King, but it's good to know how he feels about the issue.

10:25am - Chief Justice Dame Helen Winkelmann says courthouses will remain open on Friday with flags flying at half-mast. Judges have been invited to mark the death of Queen Elizabeth II in their courtrooms in some way of their own choosing.

A number of technical changes have been made effective from Friday, including:

• Queen's Counsel become King's Counsel
• Criminal cases now become The King v X, rather than The Queen v X
• Court announcements will now refer to judge's as The King's Judge

10:15am - "Heaven rolled out the red carpet for her."

Rainbows appeared in the sky over Buckingham Palace just moments after the death of Queen Elizabeth II was announced.

"As the flag is lowered to half-mast over Windsor Castle an incredible rainbow appears over the castle, for a few minutes and then just like that, it was gone," royal photographer Chris Jackson tweeted. 

"There was a double rainbow outside Buckingham Palace this afternoon when The Queen passed away. She's really left us," a self-proclaimed royal enthusiast tweeted, alongside a photo of the two arches reaching across the sky.

See more here.

10:10am - A Newshub special is now airing on Three and in the video above. We will continue to have rolling coverage of the death of Queen Elizabeth II throughout the day. At 11:30am, the Governor-General will speak to media. We will bring you that live.

9:55am - The ascension of King Charles to the British throne has stirred renewed calls from politicians for former colonies in the Caribbean to remove the monarch as their head of state.

Charles succeeds his mother, Queen Elizabeth, who ruled for 70 years and died on Thursday afternoon.

The prime minister of Jamaica said the country would mourn Elizabeth, and his counterpart in Antigua and Barbuda ordered flags to half-mast until the day of her burial.

But in some quarters there are doubts about the role a distant monarch should play in the 21st century. Earlier this year, some Commonwealth leaders expressed unease at a summit in Kigali, Rwanda about the passage of leadership of the 54-nation club from Elizabeth to Charles.

And an eight-day tour in March by now heir-to-the-throne Prince William and his wife Kate to Belize, Jamaica and the Bahamas was marked by calls for reparation payments and an apology for slavery.

Barbados, one of a dozen Caribbean nations which are Commonwealth members, ditched the queen as head of state last year. Jamaica has signaled it may soon follow suit, though both remain members of the Commonwealth.

An August survey showed 56% of Jamaicans favor removing the British monarch as the head of state.

Mikael Phillips, an opposition member of Jamaica's parliament, in 2020 filed a motion backing the removal.

"I am hoping as the prime minister had said in one of his expressions, that he would move faster when there is a new monarch in place," Phillips said on Thursday.

Former St. Lucia prime minister and now leader of the opposition Allen Chastanet told Reuters he backed what he said was a "general" movement toward republicanism in his country.

"I certainly at this point would support becoming a republic," he said.

Activists in the region said Charles' ascension to the throne was also an opportunity to redouble calls for slavery reparations.

- Reuters

9:45am - Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, was earlier pictured arriving at Balmoral following the death of his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II. 

It's been reported that he hadn't yet seen the Queen while he was visiting the UK. His wife, Meghan Markle, was not pictured with him. 

Read more here.

9:35am - Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York and former wife of Queen Elizabeth's son Prince Andrew, has tweeted that she is "heartbroken" by the loss of the monarch.

"She leaves behind an extraordinary legacy: the most fantastic example of duty and service and steadfastness, and a constant steadying presence as our head of state for more than 70 years."

9:30am - During the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Celebrations earlier this year, Queen Elizabeth II appeared in a surprise video with Paddington Bear.

On Friday, following her passing, the character shared a special message to the late monarch.

Find more here.

9:20am - A statement from the Chief Justice Helen Winkelmann: 

On behalf of the New Zealand judiciary, Chief Justice Helen Winkelmann has today paid

tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Queen Elizabeth II's reign as Head of State of New Zealand has spanned eight decades.

When she acceded to the throne in 1952, New Zealand's Chief Justice, Sir Humphrey

O'Leary, suggested that few would live to see the culmination of what he wished to be her

"long, calm and fruitful reign". Both prediction and wish proved true, the Chief Justice said.

There have been seven Chief Justices of New Zealand during Queen Elizabeth II's reign.

Much has changed in the landscape of the courts including the establishment of the Supreme

Court, which replaced the Privy Council in London as the highest appellate court of New

Zealand. But through all that time the Queen has continued to play an important if symbolic

role in the administration of justice in New Zealand, as the figure in whose name justice is

carried out.

"It is with great sadness that I learned today of the Queen's passing. I acknowledge her

extraordinary commitment, and unprecedented service to the Commonwealth."

"On behalf of the judiciary, I express my sorrow at her death and my sympathy to her family

at this sad time."

Courthouse flags will be lowered to half-mast.

9:15am - A statement from the Green Party:

On behalf of the Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand, I would like to send our deepest condolences to the Royal Family on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II," says co-leader of the Green Party, Marama Davidson.

"Beneath the title and ceremony was a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her loss will be felt deeply by those who loved her, both within her family and the wider public. 

"Over seven decades, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was a significant presence the world over. Her reign was a constant in a changing world and her legacy will loom large for decades to come.

"From a young age, Queen Elizabeth II lived a life of unwavering public service to her country and its former colonies. She carried out her duties with a remarkable sense of grace and integrity. To have done that for more than 70 years is worthy of admiration.

"There is no doubt Queen Elizabeth II cared deeply about Aotearoa New Zealand. Her support during history-making events such as the Christchurch earthquakes would have been of great comfort to many.

"Her Majesty's death marks the end of an era for Aotearoa. She was New Zealand's head of state for more than 70 years, a period in which we have grappled with what it means to truly honour te Tiriti o Waitangi.

"Queen Elizabeth II herself said it was up to the people of the Commonwealth to define the relationship between the British monarchy and their country. That is a question for another day," says Marama Davidson.

9:05am - Watch ITV's special coverage of the death of Queen Elizabeth II in the video component above. Newshub will continue to provide rolling coverage throughout the day.

9am - A statement from Kiingi Tuheitia on the death of Queen Elizabeth II: 

8:55am - A statement on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II from the New Zealand Defence Force:

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) acknowledges with sadness the death of Queen Elizabeth II, the Monarch who 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," he 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 had a special relationship with the NZDF. As head of state, Her Majesty 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.

"While we celebrate and mourn her long and rich life, we also celebrate the accession of the new King," Air Marshal Short said.

The Queen visited New Zealand 10 times over her lifetime.

In her first visit to New Zealand in 1953-54, among her first duties was the presentation of the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s first colour at Whenuapai Air Base. She also presented a new colour to the Royal New Zealand Navy at HMNZS Philomel (at Devonport).

The NZDF will have a major role to play 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. We will provide details of these activities in due course.

In 2016, the Queen appointed the Prince of Wales with the following honorary titles: Admiral of the Fleet in the Royal New Zealand Navy; Field Marshal in the New Zealand Army; and Marshal of the Royal New Zealand Air Force. He will retain these honorary titles as King.

8:45am - Flags are already flying at half-mast, including at Parliament and on the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

The Ministry for Culture and Heritage says that all flags on Government and public buildings must fly at half-mast "up to and including the day of Her Majesty’s State Memorial Service in New Zealand, except on Proclamation Day (being the day when the new Sovereign is announced officially) when the New Zealand Flag is to be flown from the top of the mast".

8:40am - Thousands of people gathered outside Buckingham Palace in London, shedding tears and singing "God Save the Queen" in an impromptu show of emotion as news emerged that Queen Elizabeth had died.

A double rainbow arched over the London skyline shortly before well-wishers fell into stunned silence as the palace lowered its Union Jack flag to half-staff, signifying the death of the monarch.

"We've grown up with her always being there," said consultant Margaret Parris, tears welling up in her eyes.

She had travelled 20 miles (32 km) to the palace after hearing earlier in the day that the queen had fallen ill.

Elizabeth died peacefully at her home in Scotland, aged 96. Her eldest son Charles, 73, is now king.

The mood on the esplanade in front of Buckingham Palace was very different three months ago, when the queen appeared on the balcony to huge cheers from revellers enjoying her Platinum Jubilee celebrations, which marked her 70 years on the throne.

On Thursday, a sense of anxiety turned to shock when news of her death was announced. The palace posted an official notice on the gates outside, which Londoners and tourists alike pressed forward to see.

Thousands more people started to arrive, some carrying flowers.

"It felt like history in the making, so we rushed over to the palace. Quite something for a holiday," said Nabeel Dockrat, 26, a tourist from South Africa.

The sense of history passing was felt just as keenly 300 miles away in Edinburgh, Scotland's capital.

"It's one of those days like 'where were you when JFK was shot? Where were you on 9/11?'," said Laura McGee, 37, a solicitor from Glasgow.

"I think people appreciated, whether you are a royalist or not, that she really gave an amazing service and a lot to the country."

At Buckingham Palace, 22-year-old student Adam Wilkinson-Hill arrived with a bunch of white lilies on behalf of himself and a group of his friends who could not be in the capital.

"It's a massive shock to the nation," he said.

- Reuters 

8:30am - Prince William is now the heir to the throne, with his father becoming King. However, Prince William will not automatically become the Prince of Wales. He will have to be granted that title by King Charles III. 

William, and his wife Kate, are currently titled the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and Cambridge.

8:25am - The second day's play in the third test between England and South Africa at The Oval will not take place on Saturday (NZ time) following the death of Queen Elizabeth, the England and Wales Cricket Board said on Friday.

The ECB is continuing to discuss the situation with government and will provide an update as to the rest of the test in due course.

"Following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Saturday's play between England and South Africa at the Oval will not take place," the ECB said.

Read more here.

8:15am - An explanation of the protocol surrounding the accession of a new monarch can be found here. While King Charles has automatically succeeded to the throne, there is a lengthy process that follows.

8:10am - Russian President Vladimir Putin extended his condolences to Britain for the "irreparable loss" of Queen Elizabeth, who died earlier in the day aged 96, Russian news agencies said.

In a message to Charles, Britain's new king, Putin said the Queen "rightfully enjoyed the love and respect of her subjects, as well as authority on the world stage".

He added: "I wish you courage and resilience in the face of this difficult, irreparable loss. May I ask you to pass on sincere condolences and support to members of the royal family and the entire people of Great Britain."

- Reuters

8:05am - Sir Lockwood Smith, the former Speaker and High Commissioner to the United Kingdom who knew the Queen well, said it is an "occasion of great sadness".

He describes her as the "just most remarkable person" and well respected not just in the Commonwealth and around the world.

Sir Lockwood speaks about the number of political leaders she saw and how the same political policies came and went multiple times.

8am - Pope Francis said on Thursday he was deeply saddened by the death of Queen Elizabeth II and offer his condolences to her family and her successor, King Charles.

"I willingly join all who mourn her loss in praying for the late Queen's eternal rest, and in paying tribute to her life of unstinting service to the good of the Nation and the Commonwealth", Francis said in a telegram to King Charles.

7:55am - National MP Paul Goldsmith says the Queen has "been a constant in our lives". 

"Through our entire lives, she has been there," says the MP. "We are all very sad and wanting to pay tribute to a remarkable woman."

Parliamentarians will be wanting to pay respect and acknowledge the new King, Goldsmith says. This will happen in the House on Tuesday.

Labour's Michael Wood says the Queen Elizabeth is the only monarch many have ever known. She wasn't just a public figure, but also a mother, a grandmother and a great-grandmother. Our thoughts should also be with her family, he says.

7:50am - The Prime Minister's press conference has now finished. We've replaced that stream with a livestream of AM above. It has breaking news coverage of the Queen's death.

7:45am - A statement from the Governor-General:

It was with great sorrow that I received notification today from Buckingham Palace that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II died on 8 September at Balmoral.

The death of Her Majesty is a great loss to the Royal Family and all the people of Her Majesty’s Realms and territories.

As Queen of New Zealand for 70 years, Her Majesty was an honoured monarch and an enduring presence through times of great change. The Queen will be remembered for her dedication to all her Realms and her commitment to play a unifying role in the Commonwealth.

During my audience with the Queen following my swearing-in as Governor-General, I was struck by her warmth and wonderful ability to put people at ease. Her Majesty displayed an abiding interest in developments in New Zealand and a strong affection for this country and its people.

I have written to the new King on behalf of all New Zealanders, expressing the condolences of the nation. The message reads as follows:

On behalf of the people of New Zealand, I convey our deepest condolences on the death of Her Majesty the Queen. To all members of the Royal Family, we extend our thoughts at this difficult time.

New Zealand shares with the people of Her Majesty’s Realms profound grief at the loss of a cherished monarch and honoured leader. Her Majesty The Queen was much loved and respected in New Zealand, and will be long remembered for her lifetime of dedicated service.

We have fond memories of Her Majesty’s ten visits to New Zealand, from the first in 1953/54, to the most recent in 2002, and appreciated her steadfast and enthusiastic support for Commonwealth nations and ideals.

7:40am - Ardern says a police officer shined a torch into her bedroom just before 5am on Friday morning. She was then informed about the Queen's death.

Ardern says she had been reading about the Queen's health before going to bed, so knew straight away what the torch light meant.

Formal arrangements regarding a group of representatives from New Zealand going to the UK to attend the funeral are still being worked through. But it is likely to include Ardern and the Governor-General.

Ardern has had "many interactions" with King Charles. He has a love for New Zealand and a deep passion for climate change actions, she says. He has a deep commitment to the wellbeing of young people. 

The Prime Minister expects political leaders to speak about the passing of the Queen and the succession of the King on Tuesday. The House will then rise.

There will be other formalities, including a minute of silence on Tuesday being planned.

7:35am - Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says she conveys New Zealand's deepest condolences to the Royal Family "at this time of enourmous loss". She says the Queen worked to the very end "on behalf of the people she loved". There will be sadness, but also gratitude, to the Queen, Ardern says.

The Queen has defined notions of service, charity and consistency. Her commitment has been unwavering, she says. Ardern says she will remember the Queen's laughter. 

New Zealand is now in a period of official mourning. Preparations are underway for a state memorial service after the official funeral. It's anticipated the funeral will take place in about 10 days time.

"A chapter is closing today," Ardern says.

She says what stood out to her during conversations was the level of knowledge and care the Queen had about New Zealand.

One of her fondest memories of the Queen was when she called Ardern during the first COVID-19 lockdown. 

"It was a very human conversation."

7:30am - A livestream of the Prime Minister's press conference can be found in the video component above. A picture of Queen Elizabeth II has been placed beside the podium.

7:25am - Here is reaction from British leaders and figures:

PRIME MINISTER LIZ TRUSS

"Queen Elizabeth II was the rock on which modern Britain was built. Our country has grown and flourished under her reign. Britain is the great country it is today because of her."

"Through thick and thin, Queen Elizabeth II provided us with the stability and the strength that we needed. She was the very spirit of Great Britain and that spirit will endure. She has been our longest-ever reigning monarch."

"It is an extraordinary achievement to have presided with such dignity and grace for 70 years. Her life of service stretched beyond most of our living memories. In return, she was loved and admired by the people in the United Kingdom and all around the world."

KEIR STARMER, LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION LABOUR PARTY

"Today, we mourn the passing of a remarkable sovereign. It is a deep, private loss for the Royal Family and all our thoughts are with them at this time. The nation shares in their grief. We will always treasure Queen Elizabeth II's life of service and devotion to our nation and the Commonwealth; our longest-serving and greatest monarch. Above the clashes of politics, she stood not for what the nation fought over, but what it agreed upon. As Britain changed rapidly around her, this dedication became the still point of our turning world. So as our great Elizabethan era comes to an end, we will honour the late Queen's memory by keeping alive the values of public service she embodied. For seventy years, Queen Elizabeth II stood as the head of our country. But, in spirit, she stood amongst us."

FORMER PRIME MINISTER BORIS JOHNSON

"This is our country's saddest day because she had a unique and simple power to make us happy. That is why we loved her. That is why we grieve for Elizabeth the Great, the longest serving and in many ways the finest monarch in our history. It was one of her best achievements that she not only modernised the constitutional monarchy, but produced an heir to her throne who will amply do justice to her legacy, and whose own sense of duty is in the best traditions of his mother and his country. Though our voices may still be choked with sadness we can say with confidence the words not heard in this country for more than seven decades. God Save The King."

FIRST MINISTER OF SCOTLAND NICOLA STURGEON

"The death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth is a profoundly sad moment for the UK, the Commonwealth and the world. Her life was one of extraordinary dedication and service. On behalf of the people of Scotland, I convey my deepest condolences to The King and the Royal Family."

ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY JUSTIN WELBY

"As we grieve together, we know that, in losing our beloved Queen, we have lost the person whose steadfast loyalty, service and humility has helped us make sense of who we are through decades of extraordinary change in our world, nation and society."

HOUSE OF COMMONS SPEAKER LINDSAY HOYLE

"For all of us, the Queen has been a constant presence in our lives as familiar as a member of the family, yet one who has exercised a calm and steadying influence over our country. Most of us have never known a time when she was not there. Her death is not only a tragedy for the Royal family, but a terrible loss for us all."

FORMER PRIME MINISTER THERESA MAY

"Her Majesty witnessed tremendous change, moving adroitly with the times but always providing stability and reassurance. She was our constant throughout this great Elizabethan era. It was the honour of my life to serve her as prime minister. ... Our thoughts and prayers now are with her family. God Save The King."

FORMER PRIME MINISTER TONY BLAIR

"We have lost not just our monarch but the matriarch of our nation, the figure who more than any other brought our country together, kept us in touch with our better nature, personified everything which makes us proud to be British. "We will mourn her. We will miss her."

FORMER PRIME MINISTER JOHN MAJOR

'We have all lost someone very precious to us and, as we mourn, we should be grateful that we were blessed with such an example of duty and leadership for so very many years."

MICK JAGGER, ROLLING STONES SINGER

"For my whole life Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II has always been there. In my childhood I can recall watching her wedding highlights on TV. I remember her as a beautiful young lady, to the much beloved grandmother of the nation. My deepest sympathies are with the Royal family."

7:15am - Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will speak to New Zealand at 7:30am. Newshub will livestream that above.

Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro will speak to media at 11:30am.

King Charles II will address the nation on Friday (UK Time), his spokesman said.

7am - A statement from New Zealand First leader Winston Peters:

"It is with deep sadness that we hear of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

"We join with other nations around the world paying tribute to the Queen for her many years of extraordinary service.

"Respect for the British monarchy owes so much to the Queen for her tireless service, dignity, diligence, and grace."

6:55am: Newshub senior political reporter Amelia Wade tells AM that the Prime Minister will travel to the United Kingdom whenever a funeral is scheduled. Jacinda Ardern will hold a press conference at 7:30am - Newshub will livestream this.

Flags are now flying at half-mast at Parliament. A period of mourning has begun and will continue until after the New Zealand State Memorial Service. That service will happen after the Queen's funeral in the UK.

Condolence books will be opened at Parliament and at the National Library, as well as by local councils. There will be gun salutes when appropriate and places will be designated for members of the public to leave flowers.

6:50am - Here are pictures from outside Buckingham Palace, where crowds are growing. A notice announcing her death has been posted outside the palace.

6:40am - The new King will officially be known as King Charles III, it has been officially confirmed, according to the BBC.

6:35am - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy extended condolences to Britain and the Commonwealth on Thursday following the death of Queen Elizabeth.

"It is with deep sadness that we learned of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. On behalf of the Ukrainian people, we extend sincere condolences to the entire United Kingdom and the Commonwealth over this irreparable loss," Zelenskiy wrote on Twitter.

- Reuters

6:30am - National leader Christopher Luxon has released a statement.

He says "it is with great sadness, but even greater respect" that he learnt of the Queen's death.

"Her steady and inspiring presence was an anchor for New Zealand throughout her 70-year reign. She dedicated her life to the service of the Commonwealth and she kept her word. Even those of us who never met her felt we knew her and I send my condolences to her family."

6:25am - A statement from the ACT Party on the death of Queen Elizabeth II:

"On behalf of the ACT Party, I would like to express my sincere condolences to the Royal Family for the loss of a true leader and matriarch," says ACT Leader David Seymour.

"Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be remembered for her lifelong dedication to public service. She has selflessly served the commonwealth every day of her life.

"She created a long period of stability for the Monarchy and the commonwealth, even as the world changed dramatically around her.

"It is no small feat to be the longest-lived and longest-reigning British monarch and the longest serving head of state in history.

"It is her work supporting charities that will be her legacy. She has supported hundreds of charities and is estimated to have helped raise well over a billion dollars to worthy causes. She has done more for charity than any other monarch in history, potentially any other individual.

"Her Majesty will be remembered fondly by New Zealanders and all in the commonwealth. We thank her for her selfless and tireless service." 

6:20am - UK Prime Minister Liz Truss has spoken outside Downing St. She described the Queen's death as being a "huge shock to the nation and the world" and believed "Britain is the great country it is today because of her".

She finished her address by saying: "God save the King".

6:15am - As expected, thousands have already flocked to the gate outside Buckingham Palace to pay their respects. Here is a picture of the crowd.

6:10am - Here is an explainer of Britain's rules of succession for a new sovereign:

Queen Elizabeth, Britain's monarch for more than seven decades, died on Thursday aged 96.

The following is an explanation of the rules of the British court regarding the accession of a new sovereign and a description of the powers and responsibilities of the monarch.

Under the British constitution, a sovereign succeeds to the throne the moment his or her predecessor dies, before even being proclaimed to the people, and there is no interregnum.

The new monarch is officially proclaimed king or queen by a special body called the Accession Council, to which members of the Privy Council - a group of several hundred selected royal advisers including members of the cabinet - are summoned.

A full Privy Council session is only called on the accession of a new sovereign or when the monarch announces an intention to marry, an event of great importance given the hereditary basis of the monarchy.

Also invited to attend the Accession Council which proclaims the new sovereign are the Lords Spiritual and Temporal (that is bishops of the Church of England who sit in the House of Lords, together with the secular peers of the realm) and high commissioners from Commonwealth nations.

The sovereign's coronation, in effect just a formal ratification procedure, follows the accession after an interval of mourning. Queen Elizabeth II was crowned in June 1953, 16 months after George VI died.

The coronation takes place at London's Westminster Abbey in the presence of politicians, eminent public figures, and representatives from countries around the world.

The sovereign reigns by grace of the 1701 Act of Settlement, which lays down the rules of succession, decreeing that only Protestant descendants of a granddaughter of James I of England (Princess Sophia the Electress of Hanover) can take the throne.

Until a new law in 2013, being married to a Roman Catholic also barred a royal from a place in the line of succession. However, a Catholic can still not become monarch.

The 2013 legislation also removed precedence being given to the male line, meaning that any royal born from Oct 28., 2011, would not be discriminated against in succession to the throne based on gender.

The departed sovereign's spouse plays no part in the succession, as the consort's official role in perpetuating the dynasty ends with the act of procreation.

Except in the unique case of William III and Mary, who ruled jointly, the monarch reigns alone. The wives of royal men are accorded the rank and status of their husbands, while the male consorts of female royals have no automatic right to a title.

If the new sovereign is a minor, a regent nominated by the old king or queen is appointed to fulfil the official functions of the monarch until the new king or queen reaches maturity.

Traditionally, the sovereign is held to personify the state, which he or she heads, and to symbolise a common link between the countries making up the United Kingdom. In law, the sovereign is head of the executive, an integral part of the legislature, head of the judiciary, commander-in-chief of the armed forces, and supreme governor of the Church of England.

In reality, he or she rubber stamps government decisions and reigns through the will of parliament. The monarch summons and prorogues parliament, and invites the leader of the political party which has won a general election to be prime minister and form a government.

In cases where there is a “"hung parliament", with no party having an overall majority, the sovereign in the past could exercise some personal judgment in choosing a leader but now is not expected to be involved.

The British sovereign is also head of the Commonwealth of nations which grew out of the British empire and head of state of 14 other countries.

These are Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Belize, Canada, Grenada, Jamaica, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu.

The monarchy is Britain's oldest secular institution, with the royal family tracing its ancestry back to William the Conqueror in 1066 and even to Egbert of Wessex, generally recognised as the first king of the English, in the year 829.

The sovereign is addressed as"Your Majesty".

Queen Elizabeth's official title was "Her Most Excellent Majesty Elizabeth the Second, by the Grace of God of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and of her other territories Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith".

- Reuters

6:05am - King Charles has released a statement saying the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth is a "moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family".

"We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished Sovereign and a much-loved Mother. I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms, and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world."

The King says there will be a period of mourning, during which he and his family will be "comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection in which the Queen was so widely held".

6am - Here is some of the most recent reaction to the death of Queen Elizabeth II:

U.N. SECRETARY-GENERAL ANTONIO GUTERRES

"As the United Kingdom's longest-lived and longest-reigning Head of State, Queen Elizabeth II was widely admired for her grace, dignity, and dedication around the world. She was a reassuring presence throughout decades of sweeping change, including the decolonization of Africa and Asia and the evolution of the Commonwealth.

"Queen Elizabeth II was a good friend of the United Nations, and visited our New York Headquarters twice, more than fifty years apart. She was deeply committed to many charitable and environmental causes and spoke movingly to delegates at the COP26 climate talks in Glasgow.

"I would like to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II for her unwavering, lifelong dedication to serving her people. The world will long remember her devotion and leadership."

INDIAN PRIME MINISTER NARENDRA MODI

"Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be remembered as a stalwart of our times. She provided inspiring leadership to her nation and people. She personified dignity and decency in public life. Pained by her demise. My thoughts are with her family and people of UK in this sad hour."

EUROPEAN COUNCIL PRESIDENT CHARLES MICHEL

"Our thoughts are with the royal family and all those who mourn Queen Elizabeth II in the UK and worldwide. Once called Elizabeth the Steadfast, she never failed to show us the importance of lasting values in a modern world with her service and commitment.

EU FOREIGN POLICY CHIEF JOSEP BORRELL

"Queen Elizabeth Il's remarkable reign oversaw key events of the 20th & 21st century. The EU pays tribute to her unique contribution to building peace & reconciliation. While her loss will be felt around the world, our immediate thoughts are with her family & the people of the UK."

DUTCH KING WILLEM-ALEXANDER

"We remember Queen Elizabeth II with deep respect and great affection. Steadfast and wise, she dedicated her long life to serving the British people. We feel a strong bond with the United Kingdom and its royal family, and we share their sorrow at this time."

ITALIAN PRIME MINISTER MARIO DRAGHI

"Queen Elizabeth was a major player in world history over the last seventy years. She represented the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth with balance, wisdom, respect for institutions and democracy. She has been the most beloved symbol of her country and has garnered respect, affection and warm feelings everywhere. She ensured stability in times of crisis and kept the value of tradition alive in a society in constant and profound evolution.

"Her spirit of service, her dedication to the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, the profound dignity with which she has held office for such a long time have been an unceasing source of admiration for generations."

HOUSE OF COMMONS SPEAKER LINDSAY HOYLE

"For all of us, the Queen has been a constant presence in our lives as familiar as a member of the family, yet one who has exercised a calm and steadying influence over our country. Most of us have never known a time when she was not there. Her death is not only a tragedy for the Royal family, but a terrible loss for us all."

FORMER BRITISH PRIME MINISTER JOHN MAJOR

'We have all lost someone very precious to us and, as we mourn, we should be grateful that we were blessed with such an example of duty and leadership for so very many years."

5:55am - Newshub's obituary for Queen Elizabeth II can be found here.

5:45am - Below is a summary of Queen Elizabeth's life in numbers:

• Queen Elizabeth II was the 40th monarch in England since Norman King William the Conqueror obtained the crown. Her reign of 70 years, seven months and two days was the longest in the history of what became the UK. During that time she has given her assent to more than 4000 Acts of Parliament.
• The Queen visited well over 100 countries during her reign. In 2016, Buckingham Palace said she had travelled at least 1,661,668km to 117 nations. She paid the most visits to Canada.
  
• She had 15 Prime Ministers, starting with Winston Churchill through to Liz Truss. During her reign there were 14 US Presidents and seven popes.
• The Queen had four children, eight grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren.
• She sent more than 300,000 congratulatory cards to people celebrating their 100th birthdays, and more than 900,000 messages to couples marking their Diamond (60th) Wedding Anniversaries.
• The Queen loved dogs and owned more than 30 Corgis and Dorgis during her reign, most of which have been descended from her first Corgi, Susan, which was given to Elizabeth when she turned 18 in 1944. 

5:40am - New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has reacted to the news of the Queen's death.

"I know that I speak for people across New Zealand in offering our deepest sympathy to members of the Royal Family at the passing of the Queen," Ardern said. "To us she was a much admired and respected monarch, to them she was a mother and grandmother.

"The Queen was a much loved and admired monarch, whose record reign of 70 years is an absolute testament to her, and her commitment to us all. She was extraordinary.

"People throughout the world will be feeling an acute sense of loss at this time and New Zealanders most certainly share that grief. The Queen was a much respected constant through unprecedented global change."

5:30am - It is with great sadness that we can report Queen Elizabeth II has died.

She was 96 years of age and was our longest ever serving monarch.

5:15am - It remains unclear whether Buckingham Palace will release any further statements on Thursday (local time), the BBC reports.

5am - Here is some more reaction to the news of the Queen's health:

LEADER OF UK OPPOSITION LIBERAL DEMOCRATS ED DAVEY

"The whole nation's thoughts and prayers are with Her Majesty The Queen and her family as we all hope and pray for her full recovery."

FIRST MINISTER OF SCOTLAND NICOLA STURGEON

"All of us are feeling profoundly concerned at reports of Her Majesty's health. My thoughts and wishes are with the Queen and all of the Royal Family at this time."

FIRST MINISTER OF WALES MARK DRAKEFORD

"Concerned to hear the news from Buckingham Palace. I send my best wishes to Her Majesty and her family on behalf of the people of Wales."

ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY JUSTIN WELBY

"My prayers, and the prayers of people across the @churchofengland and the nation, are with Her Majesty The Queen today. May God's presence strengthen and comfort Her Majesty, her family, and those who are caring for her at Balmoral."

PRESIDENT OF CATHOLIC BISHOPS' CONFERENCE OF ENGLAND AND WALES, CARDINAL VINCENT NICHOLS

"I am concerned to hear the news about the Her Majesty The Queen's health. I offer my prayers for her and her family. May the blessings of the Lord strengthen and comfort her and her family."

UN SPOKESMAN STEPHANE DUJARRIC

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' "thoughts are with the Queen, her family and the people of the United Kingdom at this time".

PRIME MINISTER OF CANADA JUSTIN TRUDEAU

"My thoughts, and the thoughts of Canadians across the country, are with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at this time. We're wishing her well, and sending our best to the Royal Family."

AUSTRALIA'S GOVERNOR-GENERAL DAVID HURLEY

"Following news from Buckingham Palace, and on behalf of all Australians, the Governor-General and Mrs Hurley's thoughts and prayers are with Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal family at this time."

WHITE HOUSE SPOKESPERSON JOHN KIRBY AFTER PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN BRIEFED ON SITUATION

"His and the first lady's thoughts are solidly and squarely with the queen today and her family."

US SENATE REPUBLICAN LEADER MITCH MCCONNELL

"The Queen is an exemplar of steady leadership and a beloved figure around the world. She has been a historic friend of the United States. The decades of her reign have seen a profound deepening of the special relationship between our two countries that has literally changed the world. The Queen, the royal family, and all our friends in the United Kingdom have our thoughts and our prayers."

US AMBASSADOR TO UK JANE HARTLEY

"I join the people of the United Kingdom, the United States, and across the world in sending our thoughts and prayers to Her Majesty The Queen and her family."

COMMONWEALTH SECRETARY-GENERAL PATRICIA SCOTLAND

"Like everyone, I am deeply concerned to hear the statement from Buckingham Palace today. On behalf of every nation and citizen of the Commonwealth family, I send my best wishes to Her Majesty and the Royal Family.

"She will remain in my prayers."

EU COMMISSION PRESIDENT URSULA VON DER LEYEN

"My thoughts and prayers are with her. She represents the whole history of the Europe that is our common home with our British friends, she has always given us stability and confidence, she has shown an immense amount of courage, and is a legend in my eyes."

FORMER UK PRIME MINISTER TONY BLAIR, VIA HIS INSTITUTE

"It is deeply concerning to hear today's news from Buckingham Palace. My thoughts and prayers are with Her Majesty The Queen and her family at this worrying time."

FORMER UK PRIME MINISTER DAVID CAMERON

"Deeply concerned by the news this afternoon from Buckingham Palace. I send my heartfelt thoughts and prayers to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family at this worrying time."

1am - Other royal family members have also rushed to be by the side of the UK's 96-year-old monarch.

Princess Anne was one of the first royals to arrive at the Queen's bedside. Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, and The Count and Countess of Wessex also made their way up to the Scottish castle.

Prince William has also arrived but his wife Kate is remaining with their three children, who started at a new school on Wednesday, Kensington Palace said.

Prince Harry will also travel to Balmoral to be with the Queen, a spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex said.

Jonny Dymond, the BBC's Royal Correspondent, told Radio 4 the fact royal family members were gathering at Balmoral showed how serious the situation was.

"There is a degree of seriousness that we have not seen before, the very fact that the statement was issued when the palace is so reticent about making any commentary on the Queen's health."

The Queen, Britain's longest-reigning sovereign and the world's oldest monarch, has been suffering from what Buckingham Palace has called "episodic mobility problems" since the end of last year.

Last October, Queen Elizabeth spent a night in hospital and she had been forced to cut back on her public engagements since then. On Wednesday she cancelled a virtual meeting with senior ministers after being advised to rest by her doctors.

The previous day she had been pictured appointing Liz Truss as the country's new Prime Minister at Balmoral.

A palace source said immediate family members had been informed and played down speculation that the monarch had suffered a fall.

Reaction

Elizabeth has been Queen of Britain and more than a dozen other countries since 1952, and earlier this year celebrated her 70th year on the throne.

PM Truss said the whole country would be deeply concerned by the news.

"My thoughts - and the thoughts of people across our United Kingdom - are with Her Majesty The Queen and her family at this time," she said.

Lindsay Hoyle, the speaker of the House of Commons, interrupted an energy debate in parliament to say he sent his best wishes to the monarch.

"Along with the rest of the country, I am deeply worried by the news from Buckingham Palace this afternoon," opposition Labour leader Keir Starmer said.

Royal historian Anna Whitelock, professor of the history of monarchy at City, University of London, told the Guardian the announcement suggests "clearly very serious times" and indicates "the end is not too long away".