Prince Harry has spoken about his baby niece for the first time, describing the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's baby as "absolutely beautiful".

Harry, who is in Australia on secondment with the defence force, said he could not wait to meet the infant princess who was born yesterday at 8.34am local time, weighing 3.7kg.

Her parents William and Kate also thanked well-wishers for the support they had received following the birth.

A Kensington Palace spokesman said: "The Duke and Duchess are hugely grateful for the messages of congratulations they have received from people all over the world.

"It means a great deal to them that so many people have celebrated the arrival of their new daughter."

He added: "Additionally Prince Harry has said about his new niece: 'She is absolutely beautiful. I can't wait to meet her'."