Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan visited New Zealand House in London on Tuesday to pay their respects to the 50 innocent people killed during the horrific terror attacks in Christchurch on Friday.
The royal couple were greeted by the UK High Commissioner Sir Jerry Mateparae with a hongi before they wrote a message in the book of condolence.
Meghan signed her name along with a message which read: “Our deepest condolences… We are with you.”
Harry signed his name alongside the words “Arohanui”, the Te Reo Māori word which means with much love or with deep affection.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex left a message of condolence at New Zealand House in London. (Image: Getty)
Heavily pregnant, Meghan wore an all-black ensemble and wore earrings previously gifted to her by New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.
The Sussexes also left bouquets of flowers at the entrance of the house and met with staff and were given words of good luck ahead of the birth of their first child, which is due in late April.
UK High Commissioner Sir Jerry Mateparae greeted Meghan and Harry with a hongi as they arrived at New Zealand House in London. (Image: Getty)
Speaking about the Sussexes visit, Sir Jerry says, “The Royal Highness visit is reflective of this outpouring of support and it was wonderful to welcome them to New Zealand House.”
The Sussexes left bouquets of flowers outside the front of New Zealand house. (Image: Getty)
The couple’s visit, on behalf of the Royal Family, follows a heartfelt, joint message they issued on Friday with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge from Kensington Palace which read: “Our hearts go out to the families and friends of the people who lost their lives in the devastating attack in Christchurch.
“We have all been fortunate to spend time in Christchurch and have felt the warm, open-hearted and generous spirit that is core to its remarkable people.
“No person should ever have to fear attending a sacred place of worship,” the message continues.
“This senseless attack is an affront to the people of Christchurch and New Zealand, and the broader Muslim community. It is a horrifying assault on a way of life that embodies decency, community, and friendship.
“We know that from this devastation and deep mourning, the people of New Zealand will unite to show that such evil can never defeat compassion and tolerance.
“We send our thoughts and prayers to everyone in New Zealand today.
“Kia Kaha.”
Separate messages of condolences were also sent from the Queen and the Prince of Wales.
Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan visited New Zealand just last year in October, as part of their first international royal tour across Australasia.
Harry and Meghan had both travelled to New Zealand previously, Harry in 2015 for a royal tour and Meghan on a campervan road trip around the South Island in 2014.
Prince Harry and Meghan greet New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern during their visit to New Zealand last year. (Image: Getty)
It was also during their Australasian tour that the couple announced they were expecting their first child, which would be born in the British Spring (Autumn in New Zealand).
Now in her final month of pregnancy, Meghan has taken maternity leave from her royal duties, but is said to still be taking a handful of private engagements.
