Prince William travelled 'cattle class' as Mr Pinkerton-Smith

It is understood that Prince William and his security team flew economy during a trip to New Zealand last week.

According to a report in the Daily Telegraph today, when travelling from Auckland to Christchurch, the prince sat with Joe Public on the Air New Zealand Boeing 737 flight to the earthquake-torn city.

Air New Zealand, however, would not confirm the rumour.

On a five-day visit to disaster areas in New Zealand and Australia, Prince William was well-received as he mingled in casual dress with the locals in Christchurch (pictured above) and other affected areas.

His egalitarian attitude and friendly manner is said to have boosted his popularity Down Under ahead of his wedding next month.

The prince and Kate Middleton will be inviting their wedding guests to donate to the Christchurch earthquake relief fund, to which the Queen has also made an undisclosed personal donation.

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