New Zealand's South Island turned on archetypal blue-sky and sunshine weather today for the launch of this years New Zealand leg of the World Harmony Run - an international torch relay that seeks to promote international friendship and understanding. As a symbol of harmony, runners carry a flaming torch, passing it from hand to hand between members of thousands of communities and travelling through over 70 nations around the globe. The World Harmony Run was founded in 1987 by Sri Chinmoy - a tireless ambassador for global harmony whose numerous initiatives have inspired people from all walks of life to strive for a more harmonious and fufilling world.

On what began as a crisp morning following snowfall throughout the Southern Alps over the Queens Birthday holiday weekend, members of the New Zealand World Harmony Run team visited four schools in Christchurch and offered a free lunchtime concert for passers-by in the city's Cathedral Square. The previous Sunday, the team also participated in the SBS Christchurch City Marathon - carrying the Harmony torch and banners for the whole distance and giving runners and spectators an opportunity to hold and run with the torch as well. Before the start of the Marathon, the World Harmony Run torch was held by Kiwi running icon Allison Roe and former All Black legend Jeff Wilson.

The World Harmony Run New Zealand - Come Join Us!