On behalf of the Ashburton District, Mayor Neil Brown has expressed our condolences and sadness this morning on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

“Our thoughts are with the Royal Family through this difficult time and we wish to acknowledge the deep impact that Her Majesty has had on New Zealand throughout her long and inspirational reign.

“She has devoted her life to serving Britain and the Commonwealth and has been a rock of stability during her long reign, for which she will be fondly remembered and respected. She was quite remarkable and our thoughts are with King Charles III and his family at this time.”

The Queen visited Ashburton during her time as head of state, including in 1954 shortly after her coronation, and in 1981. To mark her 70th year as Monarch, Council this year planted seven commemorative trees at domains around the district.

The flags at Baring Square West in Ashburton were lowered to half mast today to recognise her passing. A book of condolences will be available at the Ashburton Public Library this afternoon.