Our morning began with a team of runners catching a ferry to Rangitoto Island. Our lofty goal was to light the Harmony Torch at the summit of this beautiful jewel in Auckland's harbour.

The half dozen or so derelict huts along the island's wharf were the only reminders that this land was once inhabited by human beings. Now it is a reserve looked after by a team of rangers from the Department of Conservation.

At the summit we encountered a diverse group of tourists from almost every part of the globe; a perfect opportunity to take some photos with the Torch.

Here in this tranquil haven, we were surrounded by a panoramic view of Auckland city and its surrounding islands.

Life has the temerity to thrive in the most inhospitable conditions.

What was once a desolate volcano now wears a green shawl over its magma-black surface.

Special thanks to the team at Fullers for their wonderful generosity in sponsoring the ferry ride to Rangitoto,

and to the Department of Conservation for giving us permission to keep the torch aflame at the summit.

For the next part of our journey we took the harmony torch to the SkyTower, where we gazed upon a 360 degree birds eye view over the sprawling City of Sails, with its rolling volcanic hills peppered with tiny buildings and houses.

View from the bottom of SkyTower

View from the top of SkyTower (220 metres)

It was tempting to join the ranks of those brave souls hurling themselves off the Tower with a bungy cord, but it was time to go to Rainbows End.

Thanks to SkyTower and especially Geoff Turkington for the free tickets, which were greatly appreciated.

At the bottom of the SkyTower we met Tanya Cook 

At New Zealand's biggest theme park Rainbows End we caught up with a bit of rest and relaxation. First up was a photo-shoot with Manager Ross Parton and his crew who held the harmony torch.

Ross Parton holding the torch

Rai 'n' Bow...

...and the runners

At the entrance of the roller coaster...

The girls were brave enough to try the Fear Fall!

Special thanks to the Rainbow's End management for allowing us to visit, and especially for the rides!

Also, we would like to offer our deepest gratitude to Jucy Rentals for supplying us with the three vans we will be using every day over the next month to transport our crew around New Zealand. Thank you Jucy!

– Tom McGuire

Team Members:
Nigel Webbwe (Australia), Erika Pongrancz, Gabor Horvath (both from Hungary), Ujjwala Merrick, , Tom McGuire (all from New Zealand)

Gallery: See more images!