Bike for George at cycling centre opening

Prince George has been given his first bike - but he'll have to learn how to walk first.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge officially opened New Zealand's National Cycling Centre on Saturday, receiving loud cheers from the 2000-strong crowd as they walked down the red carpet.

And though baby George wasn't there, he won't go home empty handed.

Avanti founder John Struthers presented the bike to the royal couple, and quipped: "I hope Air New Zealand doesn't charge extra baggage".

Mr Struthers said the prince will have to wait until he's two years old to give the bespoke balance bike a spin.

The crowd let out an audible sigh when Kate unwrapped a second present - a black and white lycra Avanti cycling shirt.

After the couple opened the venue, Prince William hesitantly fired a starting gun, beginning the velodrome's first race between world champion track cyclists.

Kate and William were then shown around the centre by Kiwi Olympic medallist Sarah Ulmer and New Zealand Prime Minister John Key.