Officials from Tauranga have paid warm tributes to Queen Elizabeth II following the announcement of her death in the early hours of Friday morning.

With the New Zealand flag on Takitimu drive flying at half-mast until further notice, books of condolences will be available for the community to sign from Saturday, September 10, at libraries across the city.

Her Majesty left her mark on the city following a visit on February 9, 1963. The Royal party, which included her husband Prince Phillip, arrived on the royal yacht Britannia which berthed at Coronation Pier in Mount Maunganui.

With the pier covered with flowers in the shape of her personal standard, and the Town Hall decorated with lights and topped with a crown, the official welcome was held at the city's Memorial Park in the Sound Shell.

The Queen walked through the park to be greeted by girls dressed as Grecian maidens, who cast red and white petals at her feet. Following the formalities, the party was treated to a Surf Carnival on Mount Main Beach.

Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh on a launch in Tauranga Harbour. Photo: Tauranga City Libraries.

Tauranga MP Sam Uffindell says the Queen had lived her life with 'distinguished grace and humility”, and praised her dedication to the crown.

”As sovereign, she gave 70 years of selfless service and dedication to the Commonwealth and ensured stability and consistency during some incredibly turbulent times,” he says.

”My thoughts are with her family as they come together to mourn and celebrate her incredible life and reign.”

Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller called Queen Elizabeth 'a profoundly remarkable woman”, and admitted to being 'deeply affected” by the news.

'She led a life infused by privilege, yet lived day-by-day for over 70 years in selfless service of us all,” says Muller.

Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh boarding the Royal Barge on the visit of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1963. Photo: Tauranga City Libraries.

'Hers is a life-long demonstration of values that resonate even more distinctly today than in 1952.”

'I have been deeply affected – sadder than I expected to be – reflecting on her constant and sure presence in our lives. Her passing makes us reflect on those of her generation of our own families who have left us.”

Tauranga City Council commissioner Shadrach Rolleston called Her Majesty 'a constant source of strength and stability” through her 70-year reign.

'Queen Elizabeth II lived a life of service with dignity and grace” he says.

'Her Majesty guided the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth through many turbulent times, and was a symbol of strength and unity for millions.

Commissioner Shadrach Rolleston. Photo: John Borren/SunLive.

'For many in our community the Queen has been a constant presence, and people will no doubt want to express their deepest condolences to the royal family.”

A council spokesperson says floral tributes can be placed near the large tree behind the Queen Elizabeth II Youth Centre at Memorial Park, and at Coronation Park on the corner of Maunganui Road and Nikau Crescent.

- Dan Sheridan/Stuff.