'I think New Zealand has been a better place with her as our head of state.'

"Here is a woman who gave her life utterly to serve others," Ardern says.

New Zealand will hold a memorial service and a proclamation ceremony in coming days.

Celebrities across the pond and beyond are heartbroken over the death of Queen Elizabeth.

Queen Elizabeth II visited Rotorua and the Bay of Plenty several times over the years.

What happens when the British monarch dies is planned years in advance.

"It's a national tournament and they were up against the best in the country."

Charles, at 73, is the oldest person to become monarch.

Queen's first visit to New Zealand was heralded with a harbourside artillery salute

A long life of duty has come to an end.

From her education to a knack for imitating others - 10 facts about an extraordinary life.

Queen Elizabeth II has died aged 96 and tributes are flowing in for the longest-reigning monarch. Video / NZ Herald

Queen Elizabeth II has died and her eldest son, Charles, is now the King

Prince Charles became king immediately upon her death but coronation may be months away.

The Commonwealth's longest-serving monarch visited Rotorua four times

'I was so shocked about what was happening, I was kind of a little bit frozen.'

Near the western end of Lake Rotoiti lies a small island.

Upholding the principles of Māori data sovereignty is crucial, group finds.

Mokopuna proud of helping her kuia into aged care.

'This has been a challenge like no other and has taught us all a very valuable lesson.'

Community cases, hospitalisations and deaths are all declining.

Court has declined appeal by convicted murderer.

Police confirm shooting suspect is in Hawke's Bay area but is "extremely transient".

Reporoa locals raise $40,000 for new Community Patrol vehicle to fight crime.

It's huge in Belgium and now NZ bikers are taking the sport of cyclo-cross seriously.

Taupō Police officer says alcohol takes away teens' good decision-making ability.