Prince Harry gets behind NZ team

HRH Prince Harry holds the T-shirt presented to him by New Zealand Defence Force Invictus Games Team. Photo / NZ Defence Forse

Prince Harry may have to split his allegiance at the Invictus Games after receiving a Kiwi supporters shirt.

The royal surprised the New Zealand Defence Force team by making an appearance at a reception hosted by New Zealand High Commissioner Dr Lockwood Smith at New Zealand House in London.

During the evening he was presented with a t-shirt bearing the slogan, 'I am behind the Kiwi team'.

"While in reality we know he'll be backing the UK team, in the spirit of sportsmanship he accepted our t-shirt," said David Sherriff, the NZDF team captain.

Prince Harry was also treated to a performance by Ngati Ranana, a London-based Maori cultural group, which during its karanga directed plenty of good-natured humour at the young royal, "which he took with typical good grace", the NZDF said.

"It was a real pleasure to meet Prince Harry and have the opportunity to discuss the games with him," Mr Sherriff said.

"Having the driving force of the games come specifically to meet us -- one of the smallest teams attending -- highlighted that he is really interested in the teams that are competing."

The prince, who was instrumental in creating and advocating for the Invictus Games, spoke individually to the New Zealand competitors and their friends and family members.

"He was really down-to-earth and easy to talk to. It was a pleasure to meet him," said team member Corporal Peter Mason-Smith.

The Invictus Games take place in London between September 10-14, with more than 400 wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women from 13 countries taking part.

The games were instigated and supported by the Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry, and the UK Ministry of Defence.