Several hundred people have gathered to pay their respects to Kaikoura man Louis Edgar, who perished in last week's earthquake, is to be held this afternoon.
A town meeting was brought forward so residents can attend the 1.30pm service at the Kaikoura Catholic Church.
Albert Louis Edgar, known as Louis, 75, died when his home, the historic Elms Homestead collapsed in the 7.8-magnitude earthquake.
He lived in the home with his mother, Margaret, and wife, Pam.
He has two adult daughters, Chrissy Bittle and Gael Knowles, and a son, Mike Edgar.
Son Mike's red Holden ute carried his ute to the church this afternoon. A white ute with hay bales was parked beside it.
Several members of the emergency services have gathered to pay their respects.
