Meghan Markle Wearing a Korowai in New Zealand Oct 2018
Meghan Markle's Latest Gift Holds Such Special Meaning, Harry Said It "Will Be Cherished in Our Family"
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have been given a number of gifts during their 16 day royal tour, but they might have received the most special gift yet on their visit to Rotorua, New Zealand. During their stay the couple visited Te Papaiouru Marae for a formal pōwhiri, a Ceremony of Welcome, followed by the Haka Pōwhiri, the Dance of Welcome.
Harry and Meghan were gifted Korowai to wear for the ceremony. These traditional Māori cloaks were made specially for them, and are said to be inspired by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's coat of arms.
Meghan's Korowai also has an extra special meaning, and was created to provide protection during her pregnancy, representing strength, warmth, and aroha (love). As well as the Korowai, Meghan wore a beautiful Pounamu necklace that holds deep roots in the Maori culture and is a "highly prized" stone with spiritual significance that symbolises "status and power." Prince Harry gave many thanks during a speech for the special welcome and gifts and said, "This cloak is a taonga (possession) that will be cherished in our family."
