Prince Harry & Meghan Markle Were Greeted with a Nose Rub in New Zealand—Here's Why

If you’re wondering why Prince Harry and Meghan Markle rubbed noses during the royal tour, you’ve come to the right place. (And no, it wasn’t an Eskimo kiss.)

During a visit to Wellington, New Zealand, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were greeted with a traditional Māori greeting, a hongi. The welcome is similar to a handshake and occurs when someone presses their nose and forehead against another person’s.  

When they arrived at the Government House, Prince Harry and Markle were greeted by Governor-General Patsy Reddy, who kicked off the traditional greeting.

But that’s not all. To determine whether Prince Harry is worthy of being invited in the house, three Māori warriors challenged him by performing a dance and offering him a dart, which symbolizes his acceptance of the challenge.

Luckily, Harry was deemed worthy (because that would have been awkward…).

The more you know.

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