The Black Ferns Rugby Sevens team received a hero's welcome at New Zealand House, basking in the glory of their gold medal victory. Led by the esteemed captain Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, who announced her retirement after the Games, the team was greeted with resounding cheers and applause.
As Maori flags waved in the air, the players were honored with a traditional Maori powhiri ceremony, complete with formal speeches, songs, and food. Woodman-Wickliffe proudly displayed her collection of medals, including two golds from 2020 and 2024, and a silver from 2016.