Public service for Jonah Lomu in south Auckland

The first public memorial for All Black legend Jonah Lomu will be held this evening in south Auckland.

The service, at a church Lomu attended as a child, will start at 6.30pm and is expected to draw more than 1000 people.

It is at the Lotofalei'a Tongan Methodist Church in Mangere, located opposite the Mangere Town Centre at 34 Orly Avenue.

All those attending are being encouraged to head to the church early and bring along a candle to light.

If you are unable to attend the memorial, you can follow the commemorations on the Herald's live blog.

You can also share your tributes with us by using #LegendofLomu on social media.

The service will be conducted in both Tongan and English and will be broadcast live to Tonga via a livestream.

Lomu attended Lotofalei'a Tongan Methodist Church when he was younger and went to Sunday School there.

The service will be conducted by Tongan Reverend Dr 'Alifeleti Mone and will involve hymns and prayers. A brass band will also play.

Although Lomu's body will not be at the church, some of his family members are expected to be there, including his mother Hepi.

It is not known if Lomu's wife Nadene or their two young sons will attend.

Tonga's Prime Minister 'Akilisi Pohiva is also hoping to be there, but he is unwell.

Various sport stars and other high-profile friends of Lomu are expected to be among the mourners.