Richard Dawkins experienced a stroke on Saturday and is recovering at home.

Richard Dawkins has suffered a minor stroke, announced the Sydney Opera House on Friday in a statement.

He is recuperating at home and is expected to "make a full or near full recovery".

The well-known atheist was scheduled to deliver talks in Australia and New Zealand, which have been cancelled.

"On Saturday night Richard suffered a minor stroke, however he is expected in time to make a full or near full recovery. He is already at home recuperating," said the statement. "This unfortunately means Richard will be unable to make his planned Australian and New Zealand tour."

"He is very disappointed that he is unable to do so but looks forward to renewing his plans in the not too distant future."

In New Zealand, ticket holders of Dawkins' A Life In Science talk are able to request for a full refund by contacting Ticketek at 0800 TICKETEK (0800 842 538) or online@ticketek.co.nz.

Alternatively, they can hold on to their tickets, which will be valid for any rescheduled appearance later in the year, says Ticketek.