English cricket team welcomed with pōwhiri

9:21 am on 18 February 2015

Hundreds of fans turned out to welcome the England cricket team on Wellington's waterfront before their match against New Zealand this Friday.

The team walked along the waterfront accompanied by a flotilla of boats including a ceremonial waka before facing a challenge from a kaiwero at Te Wharewaka o Poneke.

England captain, Eoin Morgan holding the raupata laid down by the kaiwero.

England captain, Eoin Morgan holding the raupata laid down by the kaiwero. Photo: RNZ / Daniela Maoate-Cox

England captain, Eoin Morgan, accepted the rautapu (symbol of peace) laid down by a kaiwero (warrior) and the team were welcomed inside for an official pōwhiri.

Despite her English roots, Wellington's mayor Celia Wade-Brown said her allegiance still lies with New Zealand.

England giving autographs to fans. From left James Taylor, Ian Bell, James Treadwell, Ravi Bopara, Moeen Ali and Alex Hales.

England giving autographs to fans. From left James Taylor, Ian Bell, James Treadwell, Ravi Bopara, Moeen Ali and Alex Hales. Photo: RNZ / Daniela Maoate-Cox

"I'm definitely supporting the Black Caps but I wish the English team well and we look forward to the Barmy Army turning up and having a great time."

Ms Wade-Brown said she thought England were pleased to have a formal Māori welcome especially Morgan who had not taken up the wero challenge before.

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