New Zealand Prime Minister John Key on Friday expressed his sadness at the death of Nelson Mandela, saying he was an inspirational leader and a remarkable man.

South Africa's first black president and anti-apartheid icon died in Johannesburg on Thursday at the age of 95. The Nobel laureate led South Africa's transition from white-minority rule in the 1990s after 27 years in prison.

Key said the former South African president symbolized that country's hope for a future free from apartheid and helped it come to terms with its past and build the foundations for a stronger nation through reconciliation.

"He is someone that leaders around the world have looked to, have spoken with, and for the people of New Zealand, someone that we've had great admiration for," Key added.

Key will lead New Zealand's delegation to Mandela's funeral expected to be on Dec. 15.

Labor Party leader David Cunliffe said Nelson Mandela's name is synonymous with peace and democracy and his death will leave an enormous void.

The country's Governor-General Jerry Mateparae said Mandela's death marks the passing of a global legend. Jerry said he was a man of great courage, vision and mana who peacefully guided South Africa from the evil of apartheid to a racially inclusive democracy.

At the request of Prime Minister John Key, the New Zealand Flag is to be half-masted on all government and public buildings for the remainder of today, Dec. 6 , and the day of the funeral, to mark Mandela's death.