'I think I followed the directions' - Hongi leaves Venus Williams nervous

Venus Williams is welcomed at Orakei marae. Photo / Dean Purcell.

It's not often Venus Williams is lost for words but she looked close to it today as she experienced a slice of Maori culture in Auckland.

The American tennis star experienced a traditional Maori welcome at Orakei Marae this morning, complete with haka, hongi and waiata.

The 34-year-old seemed genuinely touched by the experience, watching much of the ceremony with wide eyed enthusiasm.

"It wasn't like anything I have ever seen before and I have been around the world and seen a lot," said Williams, who looked the part in a flowing white dress and African style head dress.

"I wasn't sure what to expect but it was so welcoming and so peaceful. I felt like I was really welcome and like a member of the family so if they'll have me, I'll come back."

Earlier inside the Marae, Williams gave a short speech in appreciation of the welcome, describing the feeling of serenity and peace as "quite overwhelming".

She was then called to her feet and asked to speak again to give some details of her family background, raising smiles when she said she was "an older sister to three, a younger sister to one".

Williams also took part in an extended hongi with about 15 members of the tribe and guests.

"I was told to follow directions," laughed Williams when asked about the hongi. "You don't want to come here and be disrespectful or look a little foolish because you are not listening. I was told to appreciate it, [that] it was a very rare thing to be welcomed. I feel so honoured. I think I followed the directions...I'm not sure..I hope so".

Williams, who drew World No56 Jana Cepelova (Slovakia) in the first round, said she had been practising well and very focussed ahead of the tournament.

"I need to take some inspiration from today and get in and do it."