Pope Francis dies

Pope Francis has died on Easter Monday, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta.

At 9.45am (7.45pm NZT) on Easter Monday, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, spoke these words at the Casa Santa Marta:

"Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.

“At 7:35 this morning [5.35pm NZT], the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.

“His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church.

“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.

“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God."

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said Pope Francis was “a man of humility”.

“His legacy includes an unwavering commitment to the vulnerable, to social justice and to interfaith dialogue.

“My thoughts are with Catholics and all those in New Zealand and around the world who mourn his death.”

King Charles issued a statement after the Pope’s death.

"My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis. Our heavy hearts have been somewhat eased, however, to know that His Holiness was able to share an Easter Greeting with the Church and the world he served with such devotion throughout his life and ministry.

"His Holiness will be remembered for his compassion, his concern for the unity of the Church and for his tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith, and to those of goodwill who work for the benefit of others. 

"His belief that care for Creation is an existential expression of faith in God resounded with so many across the world. Through his work and care for both people and planet, he profoundly touched the lives of so many.

"The Queen and I remember with particular affection our meetings with His Holiness over the years and we were greatly moved to have been able to visit him earlier in the month. 

"We end our most heartfelt condolences and profound sympathy to the Church he served with such resolve and to the countless people around the world who, inspired by his life, will be mourning the devastating loss of this faithful follower of Jesus Christ.’