The Queen’s funeral was the largest gathering of world leaders seen in decades. Despite around 500 heads of state and other dignitaries in attendance, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern managed to stand out by wearing a striking feather kākahu.
The traditional Māori cloak worn around her shoulders was custom-designed by Aotearoa label Kiri Nathan. “It was just one way that I could bring a little piece of New Zealand with me,” Ardern told media.
Kiri Nathan was not the only New Zealand brand to be showcased by the prime minister at the funeral.
Ardern also wore a black tailored dress by Juliette Hogan, one of her favourite designers, and a hat created by milliner Monika Neuhauser.
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Following the funeral, Ardern posted on social media that she had found the experience of being in the UK “a truly humbling experience”.
“Today I was reminded that amongst everything else, she was a mother, a grandmother and a great grandmother,” she said.
“Watching her family follow her as she left the church will be one of my overriding memories – right next to seeing [the other] New Zealanders sitting together in the vast space on behalf of us all to say one final ‘thank you, ma’am’.”