Prince William has finished his tour of the quake-battered Christchurch suburb Sumner, conducted in a street festival atmosphere in which police had to resort to crowd control.
Police moved is as excited residents of battered seaside suburb strained to get a glimpse of Prince William.
Security moved in as the crowd swarmed around the young royal, who remained calm as police strain to contain the well-wishers.
Local MP Ruth Dyson said she was delighted with the visit.
"I'm so proud of Sumner."
Prince William was embraced by the quake-affected residents where boulders damaged buildings as the February 22 earthquake dislodged them from the cliffs above. He was even invited to go surfing, to which he responded that he'd "love to".
He posed with nine-year-old Maih Grey and while her mum was taking a photo he jokingly hurried her up.
A middle-aged woman had fainted in the crowd waiting on his delayed arrival.
She was treated by a doctor as earthquake victims began lining the streets in preparation for the royal visit.
Prince William was due to arrive at 10am but got to Sumner around 30 minutes late.
Outside the Sumner Fire Station, residents from Edith Cavell Nursing Home were seated in preparation, complete with blankets for warmth.
Redcliffs resident Casilda Storrie, 89, said she was looking forward to the visit.
She had been moved to the nursing home after rockfall near her unit in Redcliffs.
"He seems a lovely young man."
The younger generation was also represented.
"I just want a hug," said 11-year-old Rhianna Day, told stuff.co.nz.
"I want him to sign my cast," said Eva Parsons, 12.
When Prince William arrived the crowd erupted with applause, with women whispering "he's here, he's here".
