Auckland memorial service moved due to rain

The War Memorial Museum in Auckland. Photo / Greg Bowker

Tonight's Auckland memorial service for Canterbury earthquake victims has been moved inside the War Memorial Museum due to heavy rain.

The hour-long Auckland memorial service will take place at 7pm, following today's national memorial service in Christchurch's Hagley Park.

The service will include reflections from prominent Aucklanders and members of the emergency services as well as a memorial tribute from Mayor Len Brown.

A bell will be rung and there will be a period of silence to remember and give thanks for the lives of those who died as a result of the earthquake.

Mr Brown is encouraging Aucklanders to take part in the service.

"It is important we take time to reflect on Christchurch's loss, spirit, courage and resilience as we continue to work with the people of Canterbury in their time of need," he says.

The victims of the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan will also be remembered during the service.

There are free buses for people attending the service.

Auckland Museum will remain open until 9pm following the ceremony.

- NZPA