The Vatican has tonight announced that Pope Francis has died.

He was 88 years old. He passed away at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.

Pope Francis has battled ongoing medical challenges, including bilateral pneumonia, for several months.

He made his final public appearance yesterday, April 20.

At 8.07pm tonight New Zealand time, Vatican News quoted Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, as saying: “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.

“At 7.35am this morning (local time in Italy), 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 favor 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.”

Prime Minister and Botany MP Christopher Luxon has tonight paid tribute to Pope Francis.