On a peaceful evening in Auckland, the World Harmony Run team hosted a VIP dinner at the Rendezvous Hotel to mark the end of this year's run. It was a chance for us to say thank you to those who had most generously helped or supported the run and to introduce some new people to this unique event.

Upon arrival the guest were able to mix and mingle, whilst looking at a photo gallery from this year's run and to see a selection from the many works of art collected from the schools we visited. Children have a unique way of seeing the world and their expressions of peace and harmony were very touching.

Budhsamudra

Inside, Master of Ceremonies Budhsamudra introduced the distinguished guests one by one. After a speech by Uddipan Brown, which gave an overview of our journey, and a slideshow, the World Harmony Run team sang the World-Harmony-Run Song.

Jeff Clarkson

Bharashai and Budhsamudra’s singing groups performed and Torch-Bearer Awards were awarded to Amelia of Jucy Rentals and legendary weightlifting champion Precious McKenzie. Now it was time to eat the most sumptuous meal provided by the hotel.

Precious McKenzie

The meal was followed by slideshows on the founder of the World Harmony Run, Sri Chinmoy, and reflections by Jogyata Dallas on what it was like to have known this remarkable individual. There were more performances from Toshala Elliot on the accordion and New Age musician Jeff Clarkson performed a beautiful piece, flooding the room with tranquility and stillness.

Toshala Elliot

The night ended with the World Harmony Run Torch being passed from person to person, from heart to heart, until the feeling of friendship in goodwill in the room was most tangible.

Our thanks and gratitude to all the distinguished guests and to the Rendezvous Hotel Auckland for their generosity in sponsoring the function room for the night. It was a truly special occasion and all of us are looking forward to next time.

Alesha Thorpe and her family

Gallery: See more images!