More than 1000 people, with more expected, are attending a community vigil in the wake of the Mt Maunganui landslide.
Families of the victims, having held another service with emergency services at the base of Mauao, will be in attendance with seats set aside for them.
Older members of the community were asked to sit in other sets next to the family seats as a show of support.
Several people said it was important for them to be here to support one another as well as victims' families. Many described a heavy feeling since the landslide a week ago today.
One woman came with black balloons with each of the victims' names painted on in gold.
Photo: RNZ / Kim Baker Wilson
Hosted by the Tauranga City Council, the vigil was a time for the community to "come together in aroha - to support one another
Continue Reading on RNZ
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.