To describe Prince William’s first 24 hours in New Zealand as eventful is an understatement. The British royal’s day was full of engagements, ranging from sports to Maori traditions.
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First, the Prince took a tour of a construction site for Eden Park, a national rugby stadium to be opened in 2011. It will also be the location of the 2011 Rugby World Cup. William met with the members of the All Blacks rugby team, plus some young inspiring rugby players. Back in the UK, he is the vice royal patron of the Welsh Rugby Union.
Next on the Prince’s agenda was another sporty engagement. He was given a special sail through Auckland harbor on board a 79-foot ex-America’s Cup yacht, NZL40, with its crew in tow. William got a chance to helm the yacht for a short while. New Zealand won the 1999 – 2000 Cup.
Lastly, the future King got a chance to experience a traditional Maori cookout. At the Governor-General’s residence in Auckland, there was a hangi, or a feast with food cooked using hot stones in the ground.
So far, Prince William has been leaving a good impression on those who met him Sunday. The captain of All Blacks, Richie McCaw, had this to say about the Prince:
“It can’t be easy being in the position he’s in, but he handles himself amazingly well. Underneath all that stuff he has to deal with, he’s just a genuine bloke you can have a yarn with.”
AP Photo/NZPA, Phil Walter
The Prince even took some time to answer reporters’ questions. He told them he hopes to emulate his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, in her royal standards when it comes to official visits.
“I want to be able to do something good and keep the standards up that she has led the way with,” he said.
When questioned if he expected to undertake more tours on behalf of the Queen, William didn’t give anything away.
“We’ll wait and see. I wouldn’t get too carried away. I’ve still got a lot of training to do, and I need the training, believe me.”
Rather, the Prince had nothing but praise for the country.
“I just love seeing everyone and seeing more of New Zealand, so it’s great.”
This is actually William’s third visit to New Zealand. His first trip was as a nine-month old when his parents took a long official visit to the country and Australia. He came again in 2005 to represent the Queen at war memorials, and to follow the touring British and Irish Lions rugby team.
One thing that has been noticable during this tour is the lack of crowds. Much like his father and stepmother’s visit to Canada recently, few have turned out to see Prince William. One Australian news crew actually created signs, reading “We Love Will” for the rare person looking to get a glimpse of the royal.
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