The England cricket team has rallied behind Jofra Archer over the racist abuse he suffered at the first test in Mt Maunganui.
Ben Stokes says they're trying to make him comfortable before Friday's second test in Hamilton, but the Kiwi-born allrounder refuses to accept the incident reflects wider NZ culture.
"We're making him aware that we've got his back after a horrific incident," said Stokes. "Something that shouldn't happen in sport or life in general in 2019.
"It's a shame, because that doesn't represent what New Zealand is about as a country. I think what New Zealand represents is how much support Jofra has had, not just from the New Zealand cricket team, but New Zealand in general after the incident."
Stokes is in a unique position to judge. England's star all-rounder lived in Christchurch until he was 12.
The 28-year-old's winning performance in the Cricket World Cup final has made him a unique figure for New Zealand fans.
He cops less offensive comments, which he feels is more reflective of local fans.
"Comments of 'welcome back home' and 'come on Kiwi' and 'come on the Cantab' and stuff like that, which is all light-hearted.
Stokes arrived in New Zealand a week before the rest of the squad to spend time with his family.
He admits his Māori and NZ heritage are still a source of great pride, as the 'ta moko' on his arm attests.
"It's got my tribe and if you look at me, you can't see where the Māori is, to be honest. It's all from my mum's side.
"I'm obviously very proud of my heritage and where I am from."
While Stokes sounds like an Englishman, he's prepared to stand up for fellow Kiwis, while trying to ensure Archer isn't abused again.
