Ardern sends condolences to Royal family

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern last night expressed her “sincere condolences” to the Queen and Royal family.

“Our thoughts are with Her Majesty The Queen at this profoundly sad time. On behalf of the New Zealand people and the Government, I would like to express my sincere condolences to Her Majesty and to all the Royal family.

“Prince Philip will be fondly remembered for the encouragement he gave to so many young New Zealanders through the Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award. In over

50 years of the award in New Zealand, thousands of young people have completed life-changing challenges through the programme.”

Kiwis would also remember the Duke of Edinburgh’s “enormous support” for the Queen.

“His time as royal consort exceeded that of any other royal consort in British history. His Royal Highness accompanied the Queen on her 10 visits to New Zealand, the first being in 1953 and the last in 2002.”

Ardern directed that flags on all Government buildings and naval vessels be flown at half-mast.

The Government was awaiting details from the palace concerning the arrangements for the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral, she said.

“Following the funeral, a national memorial service will be held in Wellington. More details will follow once arrangements have been confirmed.”