King Charles III recently welcomed the New Zealand women's rugby team, known as the Black Ferns, to Buckingham Palace, creating a memorable and touching encounter. The 75-year-old monarch, currently undergoing cancer treatment, found himself at the center of an unexpected group hug that evolved into a playful scrum-like situation.
In an impromptu speech to the team, Charles expressed his appreciation for the "warm hug," describing it as "very healing." This interaction took place in the Bow Room, a space often used for small ceremonies and receptions within the palace.
The King shared his regret at being unable to visit New Zealand during his upcoming trip to Australia and Samoa in October 2024, citing medical advice. He stated, "I'm extremely sorry I can't come to New Zealand in later October – it's on doctors' orders." This visit to Australia will mark Charles' first journey to a Commonwealth realm since ascending to the throne approximately two years ago.
Offering wisdom to the young athletes, most in their twenties, Charles advised, "I hope you make the most of your time in the team because you don't stay young for very long. In my experience, it goes quicker than you think." The monarch also reminisced about his own rugby-playing days, revealing that he once played as a lock, a forward position in rugby union.
The visit began with Charles greeting Allan Bunting, the team's director of rugby, with a hongi - a traditional Māori greeting involving the pressing of noses. This cultural gesture showcased the King's respect for New Zealand's indigenous traditions.
The Black Ferns presented Charles with thoughtful gifts, including a signed team jersey and a wooden waka, a traditional Māori watercraft. The waka was engraved with a New Zealand proverb: "We are all in this together." In response, the King humbly stated, "I'm not sure I deserve this," and jokingly added, "You can always blame me if you don't win – you can say I interrupted your training."
Charles also took a moment to offer condolences for the recent passing of Kiingi Tuheitia, the Māori king, whom he had known for decades. The monarch expressed his shock at the news, having spoken with Kiingi Tuheitia on the phone recently.
The visit concluded with the Black Ferns performing a waiata, a traditional Māori song, for the King. Following this cultural exchange, the group posed for a photograph on the Grand Staircase, one of Buckingham Palace's most impressive features.
This encounter between King Charles III and the Black Ferns not only highlighted the monarch's personal warmth and cultural sensitivity but also emphasized the strong ties between the United Kingdom and New Zealand. As the Black Ferns prepare for their upcoming match against England's Red Roses at Twickenham Stadium, the world's largest dedicated rugby union venue, they carry with them the memory of this special royal encounter.
"I hope you make the most of your time in the team because you don't stay young for very long. In my experience it goes quicker than you think."