Out across the very tip of New Zealand, the landmass of Aotearoa disappears like a serpent beneath the green sea, white caps breaking on shoals where  the Pacific and Tasman Oceans merge.  A sense here of something mystic at this meeting place of earth, sky, sea.

For the Maori people, this is the sacred jumping-off place where departed Maori spirits return to the spiritual homeland of Hawaiki.

Under a great blanket of sea mist and light rain an historic ceremony takes place – the World Harmony Run torch has passed from Australia to a welcoming ceremony at Cape Reinga, New Zealand. The Kaumatua – Waenga Waenga, Sandra Waenga and Jewel Sucich – bless the World Harmony Run torch prior to its 3,500 km nationwide odyssey.

The iconic lighthouse at Cape Reinga.

Prachar Stegemann from Australia and Uddipan Brown from New Zealand

At Waitiki Landing last night, before our journey's start, Joyce freely accommodates us all – 16 beds, no problem, heartland hospitality.

– Jogyata Dallas

TEAM A

The World Harmony Run girls' team run from Cape Reinga to Te Kao in light rain and mist to a warm welcome at our first New Zealand school, Te Kao Primary School.

A side visit to The Kauri Kingdom in Kaitaia where a 45 thousand year-old swamp kauri is carved into intricate shapes by local artisans.

With production manager and host Shane.

– Gael Ballantyne

TEAM B

Our team sets off in clearing weather through pastoral, verdant countryside and an easy run of 20 km brought us to Ngataki School, headed by principal Margaret Wedding.

The students warmed to the presentation and returned our rendition of the World-Harmony-Run song with a song of their own and with a spirited Haka as well – a thrilling presentation.

– Nicholas File

TEAM C

Awanui School pupils greet our relay team.

Kaitaia Primary School runners sign our New Zealand map and 270 children welcome us in the main hall.

Our heartfelt gratitude to Sharon Patrick and the teachers here who accommodated us overnight in their Whare Marino and supplied a virtual banquet for our evening meal. This type of Northland hospitality makes the World Harmony Run possible.

– Uddipan Brown

Distance: 112 km

Team Members:
Mark Harvey (New Zealand), Jogyata Dallas (New Zealand), David Wade (New Zealand), Karl Harris (New Zealand), Uddipan Brown (New Zealand), Nicholas File (New Zealand), Nigel Webber (Australia), Prachar Stegemann (Australia), Keith Jackson (New Zealand), Manju Jackson (New Zealand), Niribili File (New Zealand), Erika Pongracz (Hungary), Esme Howard-Anna (New Zealand), Alesha Thorpe (New Zealand), Gael Ballentyne (New Zealand)

Gallery: See more images!