The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have told New Zealanders “we are with you” as they signed a book of condolence for the victims of the Christchurch terror attack.

Heavily pregnant Meghan wore a pair of earrings featuring a crossed feathers design given to her by the country’s prime minister Jacinda Ardern.

The duchess and husband Harry greeted the New Zealand High Commissioner to the UK Sir Jerry Mateparae with the traditional Maori method of pressing noses together on Tuesday afternoon.

They both placed bouquets of flowers outside the building in central London, adding to the pile of floral tributes which has grown since 50 people were killed after a lone gunman opened fire at two mosques during last week’s Friday prayers.

The duke and duchess were among the first to sign the book of condolence, which opened to the public on Tuesday.

On a single page, they left the message: “Our deepest condolences... We are with you.”

Beneath their signatures was the Maori word “arohanui”, meaning much love.

The duke and duchess met members of staff at the High Commission to discuss their response to the atrocity.

Meghan said “we are with you”, adding she was “just devastated” by the atrocity, as she cradled her baby bump.

Harry said “it’s just very sad” as he asked about their connections to Christchurch.

Sir Jerry said: “We are overwhelmed by the tremendous amount of support we’ve received from across the UK.

“Their Royal Highnesses’ visit is reflective of this outpouring of support and it was wonderful to welcome them to New Zealand House.”

Meghan’s appearance came more than a week after her last official public engagement before the arrival of her baby.

She joined the royals at the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey last Monday after visiting Canada House with Harry.

Meghan’s baby is due in late April or early May.