Low key, big news

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge leave New Zealand in the next few hours to head to Australia for the next stage of their three week tour.  There is a walkabout in the centre of Wellington before they leave and big crowds are expected.  The tour has been a huge success so far and huge news - even though it's been relatively low key.

William and Kate are preparing to fly to Australia

Many of the engagements have been informal - from yacht racing to wine tasting, from rugby coaching to white water rides.  There have been no big events like the state dinners or banquets that often mark major overseas visits.   Prince William has had private audiences with the Prime Minister of New Zealand and the Leader of the Opposition but there have been very few of the business and political trips that are typical of tours.  It's been a very casual affair.  

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have spent as much time in casual clothes as formal wear and yet their visit has been a global event

Even the formal events have had a relaxed air.  A visit to a heritage aviation centre was filmed by an Oscar winning director while the couple have gone off script on more than one occasion for an impromptu walkabout.  But every move has made headlines around the world and there is a feeling that the trip to Australia will be even bigger.  Whether it's a sign that William and Kate are changing the British royals and bringing in a new way of doing things isn't clear.  But it is certain that this tour has felt very different from others. Low key but high impact.