Charles III officially King of Australia and New Zealand

The King of England, Charles III is officially designated this Sunday, monarch of Australia and New Zealand, during ceremonies in these two countries to mark his accession to the throne.

In Canberra, Governor General David Hurley proclaimed that “Prince Charles Philip Arthur George is King Charles III, by the grace of God, King of Australia”.

At a similar ceremony in Wellington, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern hailed Charles, saying he “has a long fondness for New Zealand, and has consistently demonstrated his deep concern for our nation”.

These two former British colonies have been independent for decades but retain the monarch as head of state.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who will leave for London this week to attend Queen Elizabeth‘s funeral, announced that September 22 will be a public holiday in Australia to mark her passing.