Why Prince William May Miss Royal Baby’s Birth

While she’s due to give birth within the next few weeks, one key member of the royal family may not be present as Meghan Markle welcomes her first child.

The Duchess of Sussex is expected to give birth in either late April or early May, but as she and Prince Harry become parents for the first time, their baby’s uncle, Prince William, may be abroad. According to Express UK, the Duke of Cambridge is scheduled to go to New Zealand at the end of the month to meet with families affected by the recent Christchurch terror attacks.

The Palace confirmed in a statement that he would make the visit in late April after the request came from Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

“The visit will be another sign that this nation will always stand with those affected by the terror attacks, and the people of Christchurch,” the statement read.

The visit does come potentially around the same time that Markle could give birth, though even if he is out of the country when it happens, his presence isn’t required.

Of course, if he goes on the visit alone, there is another milestone he could miss instead, one that likely holds great importance to him as well—his wedding anniversary. Prince William married Kate Middleton on April 30, 2011, and this will mark their eighth year as husband and wife.

As for Markle’s pregnancy, the timing of her baby’s birth could coincide with other special events within the royal family as well.

Not only will her child, if it is born on April 30, share its birthday with its aunt and uncle’s anniversary, but if the baby is born in early May, it could actually share a birthday with its cousin, Princess Charlotte, who will turn four on May 2.

If the baby comes earlier than expected, then it could also share a birthday with Prince Louis, who turns one on April 23, or even Queen Elizabeth, who turns 93 on April 21.