Rotorua Easter service a success despite Cyclone Cook forcing a venue change (+video)

More than 500 people of all ages attended Rotorua's annual Good Friday service, despite Cyclone Cook prompting a last minute venue change.

Members of 15 parishes came together in Living Well church for the Easter ceremony yesterday.

Organiser Scott Clifford said things had worked out, despite the weather.

"I told them it would be fine this morning, but no one listened to me," he joked.

"In all seriousness, I got to sleep well last night knowing it was organised and not worrying about whether it would rain this morning."

The cross procession planned alongside the service did not go ahead.

After 11 years working on the event, Mr Clifford said it was a "well oiled machine".

"It was a fantastic day."

Mr Clifford said now the service was over his holiday had officially started.

Members of the church stand up in prayer at yesterdays Easter service. Photo/Ben Fraser

Lyn Aiken, 67 is a regular at the Easter service.

"Easter means the basis for my entire faith," she said.

"We celebrate his death on Friday, we celebrate his rising on Sunday and we celebrate his life every day."

Living Well pastor Andrew Parrington said it was a parapet he was used to speaking behind.

"It's shared among each of the ministers, so it has been a while since I last spoke at this service," he said.

Mr Parrington said it was a shame they had to change location, but that the service was wonderful.

"There was a lot of joy," he said.

"These aren't regular occasions when the separate churches get to come together."

Over 500 people from 15 seperate churches gathered together inside Living Well. Photo/Ben Fraser

Josh Jellard, a member of Living Well Church, said the service was about love and forgiveness.

"It's all about reconnecting with God, and the reasons why we can."

Those who went to the service were elated as they made their way out of the church.

Phil Yeoman said it was a pity the service couldn't go ahead in the Redwoods, but that it had all worked out all right.