Royal fever leaves fans in tears
Shouts of “I love you” could be heard from the crowd as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex walked around meeting their fans, leaving some overcome with the emotion of the occasion.
Victoria O’Brien was in tears after meeting the royal couple.
The young woman was among about 2000 people who turned out to get a glimpse of Prince Harry and Meghan, outside the Pukeahu National War Memorial in Wellington.
O’Brien, who gave Meghan a bunch of flowers, said through tears: “She was like, just trying to calm me down . . . she just said to breathe.
“I can’t believe this has happened. I can’t believe that I met the royals.
“It’s just so incredible to meet her. She’s truly just a person who I aspire to become. She’s just kind and lovely and she cares about everyone.”
She wasn’t the only one moved by the presence of royalty with KaitlinMae Shepherd, of California, tearing up too.
Alexandra MacKay, 10, and her friend Rebecca Sainsbury, also 10, made a red rose brooch, hoping to give it to Meghan.
Their dreams came true when not only were they able to present it to the Duchess, but she then chose to wear it. Alexandra said she was “in shock”. She now has a pretty good story to tell her friends at school today.
The children’s brooch was one of many special gifts presented to the royal couple during their walkabout. Other gifts included a large dog soft toy, multiple bags of the Kiwi classic pineapple lumps, and another Kiwi favourite — a Buzzy Bee for their baby, due in autumn.
Fans near the back called out good wishes and congratulations, with one woman shouting: “You’re so beautiful, Meghan! I love you!”
Elizabeth Garlick’s homemade sign also caught their eye.
“Pregnancy SUITS you” it read, complete with a photo of the cast of the American television series Suits that Meghan starred in.
Garlick got to meet the Duchess and passed on some ko¯ whai leaves, congratulating her on her baby.
“I shook her hand and touched her elbow. We really were embracing each other.”