Prince William shook hands with All Black captain Tana Umaga

He chatted to the burly rugby stars, laughing off their teasing, as he posed for photographs and shook hands with captain Tana Umaga.

The 23-year-old prince had watched the Lions lose 48-18 in the second Test on Saturday in Wellington.

"A few of us stuck into him about the score, but he's got a good sense of humour," said All Black Jono Gibbes.

"He's quite humble. He's got a real presence about him. He makes you feel welcome," Gibbes added.

After shaking hands with the players, the prince told them: "You make me look so small."

'Normal' prince

Wing Sitiveni Sivivatu said it was "a chance in a lifetime" to meet the prince.

"But I don't know why everyone makes a big deal about him. He looks normal."

More than 800 people had gathered at the Western Springs stadium, Auckland, to see the All Blacks and get their autographs.

William had been due to join the players at a public training session, but the event was cancelled. He has previously joined in a training session with the Lions.