The British royal, who is on an official tour of New Zealand, was given a shock as he came across Vicki MCBratney - the teacher who consoled him at London's Ludgrove School back in 1997 after his mother, Diana, Princess of Wales, was killed in a car crash.

Breaking into a big smile, Harry, 30, reportedly quipped, "My goodness, I remember you. Long time no see."

He gave MCBratney a hug and a kiss on the cheek, before he was introduced to the teacher's three young children.

MCBratney later told reporters she was "happy" the prince recognised her, adding, "I'm so glad the kids met him. And he remembered me, which was really nice."