Prince Charles has passed a message of support to Cantabrians on the first anniversary of the deadly Christchurch earthquake, saying he admires the strength of those trying to rebuild their lives and the city.
In a message delivered by Governor-General Sir Jerry Mateparae at the memorial service at Hagley Park on Wednesday, Prince Charles said he had come to know Canterbury as "treasures of the country's natural and built environment" since his first visit 40 years ago.
"It was ... with rising horror that my wife and I watched the unfolding scenes of devastation that so disfigured this beautiful city and the pain and desolation of those who lost family, friends and colleagues.
"I can well imagine how the suffering continues to this day for all those who mourn and as you seek to rebuild your lives in the face of this great tragedy."
However, he said the people's best characteristics would come to the fore, and determination, courage and good humour would hold people steady as they went about the slow process of rebuilding the city and their lives.
"You will know better than me how the bonds of family and friendship and of trials borne together make for strong and resilient communities.
"To those who rebuild day by day, looking to the future with hope, we can only offer you our warmest encouragement and our admiration.
"My wife joins me in extending our continuing and heartfelt condolences to those whose grief may in time ease, but will never fully pass."
The prince and his wife Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, will visit New Zealand in November.
Prince Charles' son William visited the devastated city less than a month after the quake struck.
Prince William was deeply moved by the experiences of those he met while in Christchurch, his father said.
NZN