Meghan Markle comes out of maternity leave to honour Christchurch victims
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have made an appearance at New Zealand House in London to pay tribute to the victims of the Christchurch mosque shooting, which left 50 people dead.
The 37-year-old pregnant Duchess of Sussex was pictured arriving with her 34-year-old husband. Both of them were carrying a bouquet of flowers to lay in front of the building and pay their respects.
It’s believed the couple were asked to represent the royals by the Queen herself, because they were the last members of the family to visit New Zealand.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex toured New Zealand last October, where they visited hot spots like the iconic Maranui Café, and scenic Abel Tasman National Park.
Last week, it was believed that Meghan had officially gone on maternity leave, as she’s due to welcome her baby in the coming weeks.
While it has not been confirmed by palace aides, if we look back at the Duchess of Cambridge’s pregnancies, Kate typically started her maternity leave around a month before her children were due.
Harry and Meghan were met upon their arrival at New Zealand House today by New Zealand High Commissioner to the UK, Sir Jerry Mateparae, and Deputy High Commissioner David Evans, with both the Duke and Duchess greeting him with the Hongi, the traditional Māori greeting.
Meghan and Harry then went inside, where they signed a book of condolences, alongside the message ‘aro hanui’, which is Maori for ‘with deep affection‘.
Last week, Kensington Palace released a statement on behalf of the Sussexs and the Cambridges, in the wake of the terrifying attack on two mosques in Christchurch.
“Our hearts go out to the families and friends of the people who lost their lives in the devastating attack in Christchurch,” it started.
“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.”
Got a story tip? Send it to lifestyle.tips@verizonmedia.com
Want more lifestyle and celebrity news? Follow Yahoo Lifestyle on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Or sign up to our daily newsletter here.
