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British RoyalsPrince & Princess of WalesThe Sussexes

The Cambridges and Sussexes send condolences to New Zealand

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have sent their condolences to the people of New Zealand following the attacks on two mosques in Christchurch. At least forty nine people are known to have died after attackers opened fire at the buildings.

In their statement, the couples said:

‘’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. 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.’’

The words they have used to sign their statement, Kia Kaha, are Maori and mean ‘’stay strong’’.

The message from William, Kate, Harry and Meghan followed the publication of condolences from the Queen and from the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.

The Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Arden, has described the incidents as a ‘terrorist attack’ and called this one of her country’s ”darkest days”. One man, in his late twenties, has been charged with murder and will appear in court on Saturday.

About author

Lydia Starbuck is Jubilee and Associate Editor at Royal Central and the main producer and presenter of the Royal Central Podcast and Royal Central Extra. Lydia is also a pen name of June Woolerton who is a journalist and writer with over twenty years experience in TV, radio, print and online. Her latest book, A History of British Royal Jubilees, is out now. Her new book, The Mysterious Death of Katherine Parr, will be published in March 2024. June is an award winning reporter, producer and editor. She's appeared on outlets including BBC 5 Live, BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Local Radio and has also helped set up a commercial radio station. June is also an accomplished writer with a wide range of material published online and in print. She is the author of two novels, published as e-books. She is also a marriage registrar and ceremony celebrant.