Princess Anne has offered her admiration for New Zealanders as Cyclone Gabrielle de-railed her visit.
The Princess Royal is in New Zealand this week for her first visit since 2010.
She was to attend a military centenary event in Palmerston North on Wednesday, but the defence force axed the celebration as personnel were needed on the ground in affected regions.
Instead, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins gave the princess a tour of the bunker in Wellington, where emergency management officials are coordinating their response to the crisis.
Anne issued a statement saying her "thoughts are with all New Zealanders whose homes or livelihoods have been affected by Cyclone Gabrielle".
"I am impressed by the major efforts being undertaken by first responders, local and national agencies to ensure the best possible support for everyone, especially those still at risk," she said.
"I admire the courage of the people of Aotearoa during this alarming and difficult time.
"You should all be proud of the resilience, strength and care for your communities you are showing in the face of adversity."
It is the first visit to NZ by a member of the royal family since 2019, when then-prince Charles and Camilla travelled during the reign of Queen Elizabeth.
The Princess Royal is scheduled to be in the country until Friday, with plans to visit a disabled riding group in Porirua, dedicate a war memorial and meet with the Royal Agricultural Society in Christchurch.
