‘Our little bump’: Harry’s fond words for his expanding family

Harry spoke of Meghan’s “little bump” as the duke and duchess learnt about conservation projects at New Zealand’s smallest national park.

The parents-to-be were welcomed with songs, prayers and hongis – or nose kisses – as they visited the Abel Tasman National Park and spent time at the beachfront on the South Island.

The duke, speaking after being formally welcomed by the Manawhenua ki Mohua people, shared his excitement about visiting with a baby on board.

He said: “From myself and my wife and our little bump, we are so grateful to be here.

“We bring blessings from my grandmother the Queen and our family.

“We are so grateful for your hospitality and the work you do to look after this beautiful place.”

Kensington Palace announced that Meghan was expecting a baby next spring on the eve of the marathon 16-day royal tour, which has seen the couple visit Australia, New Zealand,
Fiji and Tonga.

Harry and Meghan both had seats of honour for the ceremony, but hers was several inches behind her husband – a sign of protection for women, particularly those who are pregnant, in the initial meeting between iwi, the tribe, and new visitors.

Barney Thomas, chief elder, said: “We never, ever, put our women in that space.

“We want to be inclusive but protective, and we would not want to put our women – especially the duchess because she’s expecting – at risk.”

The Sussexes travelled to Abel Tasman by helicopter, with the 45-minute journey taking the couple over forests, valleys and clear blue waters.

They arrived to drizzle and were escorted to a grass clearing where they were welcomed with the hongi.

The couple and their entourage made their way along a line of around 20 hosts, shaking each by the hand and performing the gentle nose kiss.

Mr Thomas gave a speech of welcome in Maori, followed by a waiata, a song, from the group.

“We’ve been watching your tour and we know you don’t get much time off,” Mr Thomas said. “I wouldn’t want to be a royal.

“So we don’t want to put any demands on you. We want you to enjoy yourself. All we want you to do is relax.”

Afterwards, he said: “They have had a hectic tour and we really want them to come here and chill out with us with no pressure and no stress.

“They are such down to earth people, and we want them to be part of the family. I was saying there are two of you and there will be three of you soon.”

After a stroll along the beachfront, a barbecue and a discussion about conservation with a ranger, the couple boarded their Royal New Zealand Air Force helicopter laden with gifts, including a large colourful tote bag and a knitted blanket fit for a newborn baby.