A special memorial service will be held at Waikumete Cemetery on November 28 to mark the 30th anniversary of the Erebus air disaster.

The remains of more than 60 of the 257 people who lost their lives in the 1979 crash are cared for at the cemetery, the majority in a mass grave marked by a special memorial.

Opened in 1981, the memorial features names of unidentified passengers and is now surrounded by attractive gardens, including a cherry tree planted by the Japanese Bereaved Erebus Family Society, and seating for visitors to the site.

"Waitakere has an unbroken connection with this national tragedy as home to a memorial to the victims, many of whom are buried here," says Daniel Sales, Cemetery Manager.

"We've taken pride in looking after the remains at the memorial and its surroundings and making it a place where people can come to reflect and hopefully find some peace in spite of their heartache.

"This service is a time to remember those lost loved ones."

Representatives from Air New Zealand, victim's families, civic leaders and consular representatives from the home countries of victims are expected at the service, along with members of the public.

What: Erebus 30th Anniversary Service

When: 3.30pm, November 28, 2009

Where: Waikumete Cemetery and Crematorium, Great North Rd, Glen Eden, Waitakere.

Main entrance is on Great North Road (between Glenview and Awaroa rds).