Organisers of Sunday’s memorial service for Sir Peter Blake are expecting thousands of people will want to pay their last respects to one of New Zealand’s greatest sons.

Auckland City Council is working with the Prime Minister’s office and Department of Internal Affairs to finalise details for the service, which will be held in front of the Auckland War Memorial Museum at the Auckland Domain from 11am.

Auckland City Mayor John Banks says the council is doing everything it can to help with the organisation of a service which allows New Zealanders to show their admiration for Sir Peter and extend their sympathy to his family.

“We know that many people want this opportunity and we have received many calls from people wanting to be able to honour Sir Peter in this way,” he said. “The service will be held rain or shine, which is exactly the way this man of the sea would want it.”

The council has set up a special information line about the service: 379 1346. There will be no public parking at the Domain and all roads will be closed from 9am on Sunday. People wishing to attend the service are advised to use public transport. Information is available from Rideline:366 6400.

The service is expected to last about an hour and a half so people should bring drinking water, sunhats and sunscreen if the weather is fine.

ENDS

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