UPDATED 7.46PM: The Governor-General is going to Saudi Arabia, to pay New Zealand's respects to King Abdullah and meet his successor.

Sir Jerry Mateparae will join Heads of State and dignitaries from many countries at the ceremony.

US President Barack Obama has cut short a trip to India to pay his respects, and meet the new king.

Prince Charles is there, along with the French President Francois Hollande.

The Governor General has been asked to attend by the Prime Minister, and expects to reach the kingdom on Tuesday.