As we ate our breakfast, we watched the sunrise through the window. We were enjoying the only stillness we were to know for the rest of the day. A short time later at the waters edge of Lake Taupo, the teams congregated briefly before sprinting off towards Hilltop Primary.

The children laughed and cheered as we all did the actions to the World Harmony Run song. They were even more animated when they found out that they were going to be given the World Harmony Run stickers! Kids sure love stickers!

Upon leaving Hilltop Primary we only had to run about a kilometer to Tauhara School. We were greeted with smiles and laughter, and they sang songs about oneness and working together. The two hundred children singing, accompanied by teachers playing guitars, was an extremely positive and happy event that we will never forget.

After visiting these two schools in Taupo, it was time to run to Rotorua, and with our team in top running form, we were able to make it there by early afternoon - in good time to catch the kids of Mokoia Intermediate.

We were honoured to be received with a powhiri (traditional welcome). World Harmony Run team member Uddipan responded in fluent Maori, and at the end of the ceremony we enjoyed the gentle handshake, pressing of noses and touching of foreheads, (known as a hongi) - representing unity.

Soon we were all singing together and enjoying ourselves immensely. Before leaving they sang a song in Maori during which a few of the children sang solo. (more photos)

After a very full day we took the opportunity to rest and enjoy the natural hot spa at Lakeside Thermal Holiday Park, where we had been very generously invited back for the second year in a row.