 Prince William is set to visit the survivors of the Christchurch mosque shootings and the city's Muslim community next week, it has been announced.
The Duke of Cambridge will attend Anzac services next Thursday in Auckland before flying to the terror-struck South Island town, New Zealand's government has confirmed. During a two-day visit to the country, he'll meet with families, first responders and members of the community to pay tribute after the March 15 shootings that killed 50. “The Duke has a close connection with New Zealand and in particular Christchurch," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a statement. "His visit provides the opportunity to pay tribute to those affected by the mosque terrorist attacks and show support to the local and national community. “We welcome this visit by His Royal Highness and know it will bring comfort to those affected.” Prince William visited Christchurch following the deadly 2011 earthquake and again with wife Kate in 2014. Security is reported to have been a top priority for those organising his trip next week, with New Zealand's terror threat level only downgraded from high to medium on Wednesday. |