Rotorua school kids excited to learn about royal family

Pupils at Owhata Primary School have been brushing up on their royal family knowledge, getting ready for when the Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrive.

They have been learning the whakapapa of Prince Harry and Room 2 teacher Lorraine Pukepuke said many of the children hadn't realised how he was related to the Queen.

"It's just touching back on things the kids already understand, their knowledge of whānau and whakapapa."

She said when she was growing up the Queen came to Rotorua and that was a memory she held dear.

"When these kids grow up I hope this is a memory they always have too.

"This is a big moment in Rotorua history and they'll be able to look back on it and recognise that."

Kyra Ivory-Taranaki, 6, and Piarimu Pukepuke-Taura, 7, both thought Meghan and Harry were "pretty cool".

Kyra said it was amazing that there "was a real prince and princess" coming to Rotorua.

The Duchess of Sussex is not officially a princess, despite the Duke being a prince.

Piarimu said she had touch practice so would miss out on seeing the royals but Kyra was hoping her mum would take her.

For locals without an invitation to one of the private engagements, the only opportunity to see the royals will be at the Government Gardens walkabout.

The walkabout will be the couple's only provincial public appearance in the North Island and, with thousands expected to attend, people are being advised to arrive well in advance and to be prepared for any weather.

They will be walking from the Princes Arch at one end of Queen's Dr down towards the Energy Events Centre, from 3.30pm.

The classroom has drawn pictures of the royal couple, with half Harry's and half Meghan's face.

"It's a long way for them to come here all the way from England," Piarimu said.

"They've also been to Auckland and Wellington."

Kyra said if people were going to get them gifts they should get them something for the baby, "like some toys".

The couple announced earlier this month they were expecting their first baby.