King Charles and Camilla to tour Australia and Samoa — missing NZ

July 15, 2024

New Zealand will miss out on a visit from King Charles and Queen Camilla this October.

Buckingham Palace announced this morning that the monarch will embark on a tour which would include royal visits to Australia and Samoa.

The programme in Australia will feature engagements in New South Wales and the ACT, while a state visit to Samoa will celebrate the "strong bilateral relationship" with the UK.

A spokesperson said Their Majesties' would not be visiting New Zealand as part of the tour on advice from medical experts.

"The King’s doctors have advised that such an extended programme should be avoided at this time, to prioritise His Majesty’s continued recovery.

"Their Majesties send their warmest thanks and good wishes to all parties for their continued support and understanding."

His Majesty the King is wearing the Badge of the Sovereign of the Order of New Zealand (ONZ) suspended around his neck.

Doctor's advice also informed the "limited programme" in Australia, the palace said.

"As with all His Majesty’s recent engagements, his programme in both countries will be subject to doctors’ advice, and any necessary modifications on health grounds."

The King has been receiving treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer announced earlier this year.

Charles last visited Aotearoa with Camilla in 2019 when he was Prince of Wales.

This morning, new official portraits were released of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, wearing their New Zealand Royal Honours. The portraits were taken in the White Room at Buckingham Palace in June.

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