William offered his sympathy to those affected by the blasts

William, 23, who is in New Zealand with the Lions on a 10-day visit, said the events left him "shocked and saddened".

He has cancelled plans to go whale watching as a mark of respect to those killed or injured in the blasts.

A minute's silence will be held before the third Test between the Lions and All Blacks at Eden Park on Saturday.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you Prince William

The prince, who recently graduated from St Andrews University and is second in line to the throne, has embarked on his first solo engagements during this tour.

He said: "At this time I'm sure that I'm joined by New Zealanders and Lions supporters alike in extending to the families and loved ones of all those directly involved, my heartfelt sympathies.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with you."

His sentiments were echoed by Lions tour manager Bill Beaumont, who said: "Our thoughts are with all those in the UK who have been affected."

Family and friends

Beaumont added: "As far as can be established at this stage, we are fortunate that none of our touring party have had family or close friends directly affected, although we will continue to monitor the situation."

New Zealand Rugby Union deputy chief executive Steve Tew also expressed sympathy.

"We are saddened by the events in London and want to extend our sympathies to the families of those killed, and to the many injured by these attacks," he said.

Prince William is due in the northern city of Auckland on Saturday to open a water polo competition and watch the third Test between the Lions and the All Blacks.

He is expected to return to London on Sunday after a memorial wreath-laying to mark the end of WWII.