Wellingtonians have gathered to celebrate the life of the architect who helped shape their city.

A public memorial service for Sir Ian Athfield is just getting underway next to the Civic Square he designed, in the City Gallery.

Sir Ian's family and friends, along with Wellington's mayor, have gathered to pay tribute to him and his work.

During his long career Sir Ian Athfield designed the city's library and civic square, as well as office buildings, and social housing.

His own home in Khandallah is one of the city's landmarks.

This afternoon's commemoration will end with a video tribute, and an exhibition of Sir Ian's work.