Wanganui went royal crazy last Thursday (May 14) when fifth in line to the throne, Prince Harry, aka Harry Wales, aka His Royal Highness Prince Henry Charles Albert David of Wales, flew in to town for a few hours of good will and hard work.
After arriving at Wanganui Airport, Prince
Harry was conveyed to Putiki Marae for a formal welcome and an extended introduction to Maori culture. In this he was accompanied by the Vice-Regal couple, Sir Jerry and Lady Mateparae, both former Wanganui people. On the marae the Prince surprised all by speaking in Maori and English. From there Prince Harry was taken to the slipway to take his place in a waka, wielding a special paddle made and gifted to him by Ned Tapa - and he was expected to use it.
The waka left Putiki, accompanied by various craft including the Coastguard and another vessel transporting the royal security. Prince Harry did his share of the paddling, pausing only to smile and wave at the crowds that lined the riverbank. Cars on Putiki Drive pulled over and people found vantage points all over Durie Hill to watch the prince become the first from the British Royal Family to paddle the Whanganui in such style.
The waka rode low in the water, soaking the royal heir, but he obviously enjoyed the experience.
After alighting at the Union Boat Club, the Prince endured a few more formalities before a fast car ride to Heritage House to change clothes. The unexpected drive drew through town plenty of stares and waves, and the girls from a certain corner travel agency were treated to a royal wave as he drove past. Their excitement attracted a lot of attention and some jealousy, no doubt.
Prince Harry's next engagement was to meet and greet 180 veterans in the War Memorial Hall. He did his best to talk to as many as possible before emerging into the rain to engage with thousands of well-wishers on the forecourt. Declining the use of an umbrella, the Prince got soaked but was loved for it. It was a short visit but a memorable one.
