The Maori Queen Te Arikinui meets with Prince William at Windsor Castle

The Māori Queen, Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po, has met with the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle.

Te Arikinui’s meeting with Prince William saw her following in the footsteps of her tūpuna (ancestors), continuing eight generations of engagement with the British royal household, her spokesperson said in a statement.

William’s official X account also posted a photo of the visit, saying it was “a pleasure”.

The pair discussed “a range of global topics”, the statement from the Māori Queen’s spokesperson said.

“Te Arikinui affirmed her belief in the power of indigenous knowledge and intergenerational stewardship to help solve the world’s environmental and social challenges.”

During her visit to London, Te Arikinui also attended a celebration of rangatahi (young people) who had improved their lives with support from The King’s Trust Aotearoa New Zealand. The trust is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po was anointed as the new leader of the Kīngitanga in 2024, following the passing of her father, Kīngi Tūheitia Pōtatau Te Wherowhero.

This article was first published by the NZ Herald and is republished here with permission.