By Charlotte Shipman, in London
At Kiwi House, the official New Zealand support centre in London, friends and family of athletes, ex-pat New Zealanders and a famous comedian gathered to watch the ceremony.
As the New Zealand team came into Olympic Stadium Kiwi House erupted.
Around 200 New Zealand supporters watched the opening ceremony from the New Zealand fan zone in Central London.
Amongst them were triathlete Ryan Sissons' parents, Carmel and Richard.
“We just got a text from him saying it was absolutely awesome,” says Carmel Sissons.
“It's a pretty proud moment and a pretty proud feeling I reckon,” says Richard Sissons. “[I’m] probably a bit tearful I suppose.”
Comedian Rhys Darby also took in the moment the flag was held aloft.
“The sense of pride is just phenomenal because I'm here with so many Kiwis,” says the comedian.
Darby is sure the team will provide many more proud moments.
“I look forward to supporting our men and women who are going to take away numerous golds. You have got to go in confident.”
Throughout the games, all of the events in which New Zealand athletes are competing will be screened at the Kiwi House.
The fan zone is expected to be filled with Kiwis over the next two-and-a-half weeks.
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