Vajin gets the ball rolling by running from our generously denoted accomodation at the Kaikoūra Motor Inn. He looks fresh after a restful stay!
First stop is Hapuku School, and Victor has prepared a Korero (speech) in Te Reo Māori (Maori language) elucidating the background of the Peace Run.
He introduces his family background (Whakapapa) - his father is from Benin (Africa) and his mother from Latvia.
A teacher at Hapuku has an introspective moment of peace, as have thousands who have held the torch.
And the children are off on a sprint across the school fields!
Emily shows her mountain running skills with an impressive 12 km stint on the way to Seddon School.
Victor carries the torch along flatter terrain, and over a stream!
At Seddon School Emily gives some clues as to which country she is originally from - "It sounds like the largest animal in the world and it lives in the sea"..."Wales!" comes the answer.
A parent at Seddon school wonders past and is instantly drawn to the torch.
These mums were "chaired" by the feeling of the peace torch (pun intended!).
Runners take your marks, get set....stretch! The road to Blenheim is ahead.
Colloquially known as New Zealand's "Christmas Tree", the Pohutakawa often begins to bloom from December on. The torch is still alight in gusting winds which have permanently pushed the trees on a pronounced angle.
Our night's accomodation in Blenheim is kindly sponsored by Spring Creek Holiday Park. Pictured here is Judy who runs the park with her husband, Gert. Judy was really touched by the experience of helping with the Peace Run, and her open heart and concern for the event really humbled the team members, who are so grateful for her extraordinary care.
This gentleman at Spring Creek Holiday Park offered us huge encouragement as he was touched by the opportunity to hold the torch.
