Prince Harry and Meghan Markle pay tribute to victims of Christchurch attack
20 March, 2019
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle paid tribute to the victims of the Christchurch terror attack yesterday, signing a book of condolences at New Zealand's High Commission in London.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were among the first people to sign the book of condolences, and were asked to attend by Queen Elizabeth II, as they were the last members of the royal family to visit New Zealand.
See photos from the royal couple's visit to the New Zealand's High Commission in the gallery above.
The couple were greeted by High Commissioner Sir Jerry Mateparae in traditional Maori style, rubbing noses before each laying a bouquet of flowers alongside other floral tributes.
Inside, they signed the book, with Meghan writing: “Our deepest condolences. We are with you”. Harry added his named before signing off with “arohanui”, meaning “much love” in Maori.
The book of condolences will open to the public to view and sign from 5.30pm GMT on Thursday, March 21.
A heavily-pregnant Meghan wore a black caped woolen coat for the visit, alongside a pair of earrings she was given by New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern during their visit to the country last October – their first engagement as a married couple.
The royal couple released a statement following Friday’s shooting, joint with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, saying: “No person should ever have to fear attending a sacred place of worship.” They signed the message off with "Kia Kaha", which means “stay strong”.
Following the visit, Sir Jerry said he had been overwhelmed by the support received from across the UK, adding that it was “wonderful” to have Harry and Meghan pay tribute.
50 people were killed and dozens more injured as a white supremacist targeted two mosques in Christchurch during Friday prayers. It is the worst attack of terrorism to ever occur in New Zealand.
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