Getty Images
Prince William will visit New Zealand in late April to honour the victims of the Christchurch terror attacks which killed 50 innocent people on March 15, 2019.
In a statement released by Kensington Palace, it was announced William will also pay tribute to the solidarity and compassion New Zealand has shown following the tragedy.
“His Royal Highness the Duke of Cambridge will visit New Zealand on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen to honour the victims of the Christchurch mosques terrorist attack,” the statement reads.
“The Duke will meet with those affected by the attack and will pay tribute to the extraordinary compassion and solidarity that the people of New Zealand have displayed in recent weeks.
“The full programme for the visit will be announced in due course.”
Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern has also confirmed the second in line for the throne will visit New Zealand, NZ Herald reports.
“I am mindful that the trauma in Christchurch will last long after the National Remembrance Service this week,” said.
“I’m sure all New Zealanders but especially the Muslim community of Christchurch will appreciate seeing the compassion and support, that has been so tangibly demonstrated since the attack, continue into the future.
“Prince William has a strong connection with the people of Canterbury since his visits here following the Christchurch earthquakes.
“I’m really pleased that he can make a short visit to support those affected by the attack and pay tribute to the extraordinary compassion and solidarity that New Zealanders have displayed in recent weeks.”
Kate and William visit the CTV memorial site in Christchurch to remember those lost in the 2011 earthquake. (Image: Getty)
The Duke of Cambridge’s brother Prince Harry and his heavily pregnant wife Duchess Meghan have also paid tribute to the victims and offered a message of solidarity, visiting New Zealand House in London to sign the book of condolence.
Greeted by the UK High Commissioner Sir Jerry Mateparae with a hongi, the royal couple left bouquets of flowers at the entrance of the building before leaving a heartwarming message in the book.
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 visit followed a joint message with Prince William and Duchess Catherine issued from Kensington Palace which condemned the “senseless attack” as “an affront to the people of Christchurch and New Zealand, and the broader Muslim community.
“Our hearts go out to the families and friends of the people who lost their lives in the devastating attack in Christchurch,” the statement begins.
“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 royals described the attack as “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.”
“Kia kaha,” concluded the message.
High Commissioner Sir Jerry Mateparae greeted Meghan and Harry with a hongi as they arrived at New Zealand House in London. (Image: Getty)
As well as visiting Christchurch following the devastating 6.3 earthquake that shook New Zealand’s second largest city, Prince William also returned to New Zealand in 2014 with Duchess Kate and Prince George.
During a their visit to Christchurch the royal couple lay a stone at the CTV memorial site, to remember those lost in the earthquakes.
