28 Mar 2019

Prince William to visit New Zealand in April

10:52 am on 28 March 2019

Prince William, Duke of Cambridge will visit New Zealand to honour the victims of the Christchurch mosques terror attack in late April, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says.

Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge representing Britain's Queen Elizabeth II inspects the graduating officer cadets during the Sovereign's Parade at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, southwest of London on December 14, 2018.

Prince William will visit New Zealand in April. Photo: AFP

Ms Ardern said she welcomes the news Prince William will visit New Zealand on behalf of the Queen.

"Prince William has a strong connection with the people of Canterbury since his visits here following the Christchurch earthquakes," Ms Ardern said.

"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.

"The visit will be another sign that this nation will always stand with those affected by the terror attacks, and the people of Christchurch," Ms Ardern said.

Further details of the dates and programme are to be announced.

Prince William and Catherine at the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

Prince William and Catherine at the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Photo: POOL

Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge last visited New Zealand in April 2014 on a 10-day trip.

He also came here in 2011, visiting Pike River families and speaking at a memorial service for victims of the Christchurch earthquake.

The Duke of Cambridge's brother Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle visited New Zealand in October last year.

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