Princess Anne has touched down in New Zealand, going straight to Wellington to meet the Kiwis leading the Cyclone Gabrielle response.
The sister of King Charles III was originally meant to visit the centenary event for the Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals (RNZSIG) at Linton Camp in Palmerston North (Anne and her husband are symbolic colonel chiefs of the RNZSIG).
However, due to the turbulent weather, she instead went straight to the Beehive’s National Crisis Management Centre. She met with the staff undertaking the mammoth cyclone response and Prime Minister Chris Hipkins.
Soon after her visit, Princess Anne released a statement to Kiwis who have been affected by the historic weather event.
“My thoughts are with all New Zealanders whose hopes or livelihoods have been affected by Cyclone Gabrielle,” the statement reads.
“I have been given the opportunity to visit the national disaster and crisis headquarters today and I am impressed by the major efforts being undertaken by first responders, local and national agencies to ensure the best possible support for everyone, especially those still at risk.”
“I admire the courage of the people of Aotearoa during this alarming and difficult time. You should all be proud of the resilience, strength and care for your communities you are showing in the face of adversity. Kia Kaha.”
Princess Anne will be in the country until Friday and will attend a Service of Remembrance at Pukeahu National War Memorial
Earlier this month His Majesty King Charles III shared a similar sentiment when voicing his support for those affected by the Auckland flooding that occurred in late January.
“My wife and I send our heartfelt sympathy to the families of those who have lost their lives, and our thoughts are with the many others whose lives have been so terribly impacted by events,” he said in a statement.
“I have long admired the strength and resourcefulness of New Zealanders, and I send my thoughts and prayers to all those who are supporting response and recovery efforts. Kia kaha, kia māia, kia manawanui. Be strong, be brave, be steadfast.”
