Typically, blank rounds are fired across London seen here for the Queens 93rd birthday last year. Video / AP
The Queen is scaling back her birthday celebrations amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Reuters reports the Queen will not have the traditional gun salute on her April 21 birthday, a royal source saying she did not think it was appropriate as Britain grapples with more than 14,000 deaths relating to thevirus.
Typically, blank rounds are fired across London to celebrate special events like anniversaries and birthdays in the royal family.
"Her Majesty was keen that no special measures were put in place to allow gun salutes as she did not feel it appropriate in the current circumstances," a Buckingham Palace source told The Guardian.
She said: "We know that coronavirus will not overcome us. As dark as death can be - particularly for those suffering grief - light and life are greater."
The monarch also delivered a message of strength to New Zealand.
"As people across New Zealand and the Commonwealth are experiencing unprecedented changes to their lives, concerns for family and friends, and financial uncertainty, you are in my thoughts and prayers," she wrote.
"I send my enduring thanks to those who continue to put the service of others above themselves, whether by staying at home, providing essential services, or by caring for the most vulnerable."
"Kia kaha, kia kia māia, kia manawanui," she said in the message, urging New Zealanders to be strong, be brave, be steadfast in the wake of the pandemic.
