Royal Guard of Honour for Prince William

His Royal Highness Prince William inspects a tri-Service guard of honour (WN10-0007-0003)

18 January 2010

Wellington fog caused a few anxious moments for officials this morning, waiting for the arrival of His Royal Highness Prince William. However, the plane managed to land and a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial went ahead as planned, only 20 minutes later than scheduled.

On his arrival the Prince received a royal salute from the 100-man Air Force, Navy and Army Royal Guard of Honour while the Central Band of the RNZAF played part of 'God Save the Queen'.

Prince William was then accompanied by the Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant  General Jerry Mateparae as he inspected the guard.

He was then joined Prime Minister John Key and National War Memorial chairman David Ledson, and moved into the Hall of Memories where he laid a wreath inscribed with: “In deep respect and grateful memory of the men and women of the armed forces who have sacrificed their lives for New Zealand and for freedom.”

After the wreath laying he laid a poppy on the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior. He then had the chance to speak to a number of New Zealand Defence Force personnel who had been members of the Guard of Honour. Prince William left around 10.35am, going on to represent the Queen at the opening of the new Supreme Court building.

After the opening, fans had the chance to see him during a walkabout.