Prince to tour length and breadth of New Zealand

Prince William will travel the length and breadth of the country during his first trip to New Zealand as an adult, Prime Minister Helen Clark said yesterday.

The Prince, here from June 30 to July 10, last visited as a 9-month-old with his mother, the late Princess Diana, and father, Prince Charles.

Helen Clark said that as well as supporting the Lions, he would also undertake official engagements.

"Prince William will visit an Arrowtown primary school on July 6 and open the New Zealand junior men's water polo competition at the Waitakere Aquatic Centre in West Auckland on July 9," she said.

"The Prince will conduct two wreath-laying ceremonies to mark the enormous contribution made by New Zealand soldiers during World War II."

The PM will accompany the Prince at a Cenotaph event in Auckland on July 10.

Helen Clark said he would also lay a wreath at the National War Memorial in Wellington on July 3.

"William will also spend some time privately enjoying the outdoor pursuits for which New Zealand is well known, staying on a farm and visiting a marae to learn more about Maori culture and history."

She said the Prince was "a popular and engaging young man and his visit will attract a lot of interest".

- NZPA