Flying Prince Harry may miss royal baby

Prince Harry may be out of the country when his new niece or nephew is born. Credit: PA

Prince Harry may not be able to meet his new niece or nephew until mid-May unless the royal baby puts in a speedy appearance.

Harry is flying back to Australia later today to spend time with Australian Army units in Perth and Sydney before he embarks on an official tour of New Zealand from May 9 to May 16.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's second child is due any day now and Harry jetted in to the UK for a brief stay to present medals at the London Marathon on Sunday after a trip to Turkey for the Gallipoli centenary commemorations.

A Kensington Palace spokesman said, when his short stop off was announced:

Harry will have time to make a last-minute dash to the hospital if the baby is born before he leaves to take his flight.

Kate said the baby was expected to arrive mid to late April. Credit: PA

William and Kate's baby - who will be fourth in line to the throne - is due before the end of the month.

Kate said the baby was expected to arrive mid to late April, prompting some speculation she might already be overdue.