Prince William will attend New Zealand's commemorations for the Battle of Passchendaele in Belgium this month.
Prime Minister Bill English announced the Duke of Cambridge will attend the services at Tyne Cot Cemetary on October 12 on behalf of Queen Elizabeth II.
They will be joined by Belgium's Princess Astrid on behalf of her brother King Philippe.
This year marks 100 years since the battle, and Mr English described it as an important part of New Zealand history.
"Passchendaele was the greatest disaster in New Zealand military history. Some 843 men are recorded as having lost their lives on 12 October 1917, the most on any single day of combat involving New Zealand troops," he said in a statement.
“A century later we will remember the courage and sacrifice of those who fought and died and commemorate a significant chapter in our nation’s history.
“I am also pleased that Princess Astrid will attend as the centenary provides an opportunity for Belgium and New Zealand to remember the events which so profoundly affected both our nations and which tie us together today."
SHARE ME