Prince Philip's death: New Zealand's memorial service at Wellington Cathedral of St Paul

New Zealand's state memorial service for the late Prince Philip was held at Wellington Cathedral of St Paul this afternoon.

It is understood the Queen was at the side of her husband of 73 years when he died "peacefully" earlier this month. He was two months shy of his 100th birthday.

Among the 450 people who attended the memorial service were Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, leader of the Opposition Judith Collins, Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy and British High Commissioner Laura Clarke.

The Most Reverend Philip Richardson said Prince Philip was a greatly loved servant who was known for his energy, compassion, encouragement, and interest.

Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy also paid tribute to the Prince, saying his royal highness was a loyal companion to the Queen.

She noted more than 13 million young people in more than 169 countries have benefited from the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme.

"He took great satisfaction in its ability to transform the lives of young people."

Many New Zealand families will have stories about the time they met Prince Philip during the 14 times he visited the country, Reddy said.

"He was well known to be a frank and engaging conversationalist."

Ardern gave a reading of "Memories" and Ainsley Rowe, a Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary awardee, read The Gospel according to St John 14:1-6.

The Queen and Prince Philip have had an association with the Wellington Cathedral of St Paul dating back to the 1950s when the foundation stone was laid by her majesty in 1954.