Today we had an early start in Geraldine, having 47 kms to run before meeting the lovely children of St Joseph’s School in Fairlie at 9.30am. The air was VERY fresh.

The children of St Joseph's learnt the actions to the World Harmony Run song.

Some of the children came forward to receive a peace tree, a book written by Run founder Sri Chinmoy entitled "Jewels of Happiness", and a certificate of participation.

The weather was perfect as we ran through the idyllic countryside towards Lake Tekapo.

At Lake Tekapo we visited Mt John observatory, the centrepoint of a proposed Starlight Reserve. 700m above sea level (a good climb for one of our lucky runners!), with a clear horizon and very little ambient light from surrounding areas, it offers one of the clearest views of the night sky in this world – perfect for star gazers like us. Director Graeme Murray and others are working towards having the area designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site to protect from light pollution and preserve the view for future generations. The community is getting behind this special project.

Grame and Margaret were extremely kind to us and offered us all drinks from the cafe. The area is bordered by the Southern Alps to offer what lonely planet calls ‘the best place in the world for a coffee.’ We agreed.

Graeme's dog Pippy is keen to start spreading harmony amongst the staff at the observatory. He may someday extend his good will to the rabbits in the area.

The Mt John observatory is home to several very expensive telescopes, which allow you to see stars in the daytime (not just the sun!).

This telescope from Japan is worth $7 million!

The lucky children of Lake Tekapo school are blessed with some of the best views in the world.

You never know what you will encounter out on the road!

As we reached Lake Pukaki the water was completely still and the sky was cloudless.

We would like to thank Chris at High Country Lodge in Twizel for offering us accommodation and the use of a well equipped kitchen.

Tanya at Mackenzie Country Inn provided us with a very nice room and encouraged other local motel owners to do the same.

We would like to thank Sue at Aspen Court Motel for providing a very comfortable motel unit.

– Susan

Team Members:
Sukhajata Cranfield (New Zealand), Apaguha Vesely (Czech Republic), Harita Davies (New Zealand), Vettri L. Angel (Guatemala), Becky Xerri (Wales), Shumbhanni Juarez (Guatemala), Nishima Knowsley (New Zealand), Vajin Armstrong (New Zealand), Manju Jackson (New Zealand), Keith Jackson (New Zealand), Marama Markman (New Zealand), Susan Marshall (New Zealand)

Gallery: See more images!