Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s royal tour of New Zealand and Australia in 2018 was filled with memorable moments that highlighted their personal connection to the local cultures and the causes close to their hearts. Arriving with their first baby news, the royal couple embraced the warmth of the people they met and the diverse traditions they encountered during the whirlwind tour.
In New Zealand, Meghan and Harry were welcomed with traditional Māori ceremonies. Meghan, adorned in a Māori cloak decorated with feathers symbolizing strength, warmth, and love for her unborn child, was particularly moved by the significance of the occasion. The couple participated in the hongi, a traditional greeting where individuals press their noses and foreheads together, symbolizing the sharing of breath and life. Prince Harry also took part in a ceremonial challenge, picking up a dagger while facing a Māori warrior. The event was a symbolic start to their journey in the country, highlighting the couple’s respect for local customs.
The royal parents-to-be’s visit also included a trip to Rainbow Springs, where they met two newly hatched kiwi chicks named Tihei and Koha. These names, meaning “sneeze of life” and “gift” in Māori, resonated deeply with the couple, whose own life was on the cusp of a new chapter with the arrival of their child. Their involvement in the kiwi conservation project reinforced the importance of environmental protection, a cause both Harry and Meghan have long championed.
As part of their public engagements, the couple took time to bond with local children, particularly during a fun “welly wanging” contest. Meghan, showing her competitive spirit, won the event and was rewarded with a rainboot-shaped trophy. The playful moment was just one of many interactions that displayed their warm and approachable nature, with Harry and Meghan making a point to connect with young fans throughout the tour.
The couple’s visit to New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s reception was another highlight. Meghan delivered a thoughtful speech, reflecting on the country’s historic role in women’s suffrage. With her usual grace, she highlighted the universal importance of equal rights and celebrated the achievements of New Zealand’s women, offering a heartfelt tribute to their legacy. This moment marked one of the few occasions during the tour where Meghan spoke publicly about significant global issues, showcasing her advocacy for women’s empowerment.
In Australia, Meghan and Harry’s bond with local communities was equally strong. They participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior in New Zealand, honoring those who had lost their lives in service. This somber moment was followed by Harry receiving New Zealand’s highest military honor, the “Badge in Gold,” for his work with injured veterans. Meghan, ever the supportive wife, pinned the medal on Harry’s suit jacket, a tender moment that reflected their deep connection and mutual respect.
The couple also visited the scenic Abel Tasman National Park in New Zealand, where Harry expressed his gratitude for the natural beauty and hospitality of the region. His heartfelt message to the locals underscored the royal couple’s commitment to environmental conservation, something both Meghan and Harry have actively supported in their public roles.
Throughout the tour, Meghan’s fashion choices also garnered attention. From her elegant white tuxedo dress by New Zealand designer Maggie Marilyn to a navy and periwinkle dress by Roksanda, Meghan displayed effortless style, often blending local designers with her personal taste. Her fashion choices became an integral part of the royal tour, with each outfit making a statement about her connection to the cultures she encountered.
The tour also included some lighter moments, like when Harry joined in the fun at a wheelchair basketball game during the Invictus Games. Meghan, always quick to show her support, gave a surprise speech, praising the athletes and the inspiring nature of the Games. These moments were a testament to the couple’s commitment to championing causes such as mental health and supporting veterans, which were central themes of their royal duties.
As the tour concluded, Meghan and Harry left behind a trail of joyful encounters, meaningful conversations, and lasting impressions. Their approach to royal duties — marked by a genuine desire to engage with people on a personal level — set the tone for their future endeavors. The couple’s warmth and commitment to various causes, from environmental sustainability to women’s empowerment, were evident throughout their royal tour of New Zealand and Australia. This whirlwind journey not only solidified their roles as key figures in the royal family but also offered a glimpse into their evolving approach to public life, one that prioritized empathy, connection, and advocacy.
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