Sunday 4 June 2017 10:44, UK
British and Irish Lions captain Sam Warburton said the squad was left "in awe" by their Maori welcome at Waitangi on Sunday.
Warburton and the rest of the Lions players and coaching staff were treated to a special welcome by more than 400 Maori warriors on Sunday, less than 24 hours after opening their tour of New Zealand with a nervy 13-7 win over the Provincial Barbarians.
Warriors from a number of Maori tribes performed at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the birthplace of the New Zealand nation - the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed in 1840 and resulted in the declaration of British sovereignty over New Zealand.
They faced three challenges during the welcome event, the second and most spectacular coming when Warburton faced the entire group of warriors and proved the tourists came in peace.
The final challenge was held in front of the Te Whare Runanga building and was followed by ceremonial speeches and songs inside.
"We've had quite a few Maori welcomes in 2011 for the World Cup and when Wales toured here last summer, but that was like nothing I've experienced before," said Warburton.
"That was brilliant. The day and the setting made it even more special.
"Off the rugby field, that was probably one of the best experiences I've had. All the players came out of there in awe really.
"I knew they weren't going to smack me in the face! It was more of a welcome really; a sign of respect.
"You enjoy those moments - I've done a few of them over the years, but that was more special than the others."
