This morning we ran through countryside to Aokautere School. As we addressed an assembly of young people we found that as usual they responded very positively to the message of the World Harmony Run. We hope that our visit helped to instill in them a confidence in the fact that each one of us has the power to create a better world by creating harmony within our own lives.

Our next port of call was Ashurst School. The Mayor of Palmerston North, Heather Tanguay came to the ceremony to greet us, and with the World Harmony Run torch in hand, she delivered a heartfelt speech in full support of the event. Some of the children read some very nice poetry about world harmony. It was obvious they had put a lot of effort into preparing for this event, and we felt encouraged and energised by this. After the ceremony, the mayor, teachers and head students joined us in planting a commemorative “Harmony Tree” provided by the Palmerston North City Council.

National Tai Kwon Do champion Richard Burr, who has been deeply inspired by the World Harmony Run, then joined us, running all the way to Woodville (on the way to Hastings). He was dressed in full martial arts attire, complete with black belt! Thank you for taking part in the running Richard – we enjoyed your company!