WELLINGTON, March 28 (Xinhua) -- The Duke of Cambridge will visit New Zealand in late April to honor the victims of the Christchurch attack, New Zealand Prime Minster Jacinda Ardern said on Thursday.

Prince William would represent the Queen during the visit.

Ardern welcomes the visit, saying, "I'm really pleased that Princes William can make a short visit to support those affected by the attack and pay tribute to the extraordinary compassion and solidarity that New Zealanders have displayed in recent weeks."

Kensington Palace also issued a brief statement confirming the visit.

Princes William has a strong connection with the people of the Canterbury region. He visited Christchurch after the earthquake in 2011.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge last visited New Zealand in 2014.