Flags will be flown at half-mast at all council venues in Central Otago following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

The monarch died peacefully at Balmoral Castle yesterday afternoon (Thursday September 8) aged 96.

Because of the time difference, New Zealanders awoke this morning to news of her death.

Central Otago District Council mayor Tom Cadogan said he was surprised at the strength of his reaction to the monarch’s death.

“I think I might be like many today in our communities who feel that not just someone, but something, has passed.

“The Queen has always been some sort of presence for the vast majority of us; a symbol of stability, service and honour that shone like the Southern Cross; distant but constant."

At a press conference this morning prime minister Jacinda Ardern said New Zealand and other Commonwealth realm countries would move into a period of official mourning.

“I’m sure that we will receive news of her passing with both emotions of deep sadness, but also gratitude for a life that was utterly and completely devoted to the service of others,” the PM said.

Queen Elizabeth II’s reign of more than 70 years makes her Britain’s longest reigning monarch.

With her death, her eldest son Charles, the former Prince of Wales, will lead in mourning as the new King and head of state for 14 Commonwealth realms.

Condolence books will be available for any who wish to sign them at the council’s service centres in Alexandra, Cromwell, Ranfurly and Roxburgh.