'Starstruck', 'shaking' Rotorua royalists react to meeting Prince Harry and Meghan Markle

Day four of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's tour of New Zealand saw admirers turn out in droves to get up close and personal with the royal couple during their Rotorua walkabout.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were met by thousands of screaming fans on Queen's Dr in the town centre, many of whom dressed up for the occasion.

'Major Blunder' - a military re-enactment enthusiast and long-time fan of the royal family - said he was feeling "anticipatory" in the lead-up to Meghan and Harry's arrival.

Harry and Meghan meet the crowds in Rotorua.
Harry and Meghan meet the crowds in Rotorua. Photo credit: Newshub.

As the motorcade pulled up, the mood became considerably less restrained, as members of the public clamoured for a chance to meet the young royals.

Desi Rodriguez and Aryn Fisher, travelled all the way from Montana in the hopes of catching the attention of their "American princess". 

"We love Meghan because she's one of us," they told Newshub, holding hand-painted signs.  

"Also, because she's a woman of colour - she's bringing that into the mix and into the royals…so it's just exciting to see that happen now, in 2018."

Desi Rodriguez and Aryn Fisher hold signs for Meghan.
Desi Rodriguez and Aryn Fisher hold signs for Meghan. Photo credit: Newshub.

Merle, a recipient of the Queen's Service Order medal, said her meeting with Prince Harry was particularly special considering she had been honoured by his granny.

"He noticed my hat, and he said, 'They don't make them like that anymore, they're plastic these days!'" she said. "It was lovely."

The final day of the royal visit coincided with Halloween - a fact that didn't go unnoticed by many in the crowd.

Earlier in the day, Harry and Meghan met two baby kiwis - and got to name them.
Earlier in the day, Harry and Meghan met two baby kiwis - and got to name them. Photo credit: Newshub.

Kate West scored an opportunity to shake both Meghan and Harry's hands, possibly in part due to her eye-catching Harley Quinn costume.

"My hands are shaking!" she said. "I just was star-struck, I just couldn't believe it. It's like, the most amazing thing ever."

Newshub.