This morning started early, at 5.30am with a Torch relay of Vakas and a Peace swim.
The paddler walks over the reef carrying his Vaka to launch into deeper water.
A Vaka is a traditional canoe with outrigger, a physical manifestation of the connection between the people, the land and the sea. This one was handmade by Pres.
There were also two paddle boards to accompany the swimmer.
Members of the Vaka Association took the Peace Torch out onto the beautiful waters of Niue.
They relayed the Peace Torch along a 2km stretch of water.
Abhejali, a team member who is also an accomplished ocean swimmer, swam with the relaying Vakas.
At the halfway point the Vakas met to pass the Peace Torch.
With specially crafted torch holders they were able to place the torch in the back of the Vaka and continue to paddle.
The crystal clear waters of Niue with the rising sun created a most special start to the Peace Run today.
A large rainbow appeared as the relay was finishing, a perfect end to a unique Peace Torch relay.
Thank you to Pres and Lee from the Vaka Association and Roxy from Niue Blue on paddle board who participated in the Peace Run out on the water, with our team member Stacey who was on a paddle board too.
A quick change and the Peace Run team made their way to Niue High school.
Here the Junior School was waiting in one of the classrooms to hear all about the Peace Run.
And express their wishes for Peace.
We took a moment to feel peace inside our heart.
They kindly sang for us and their stunning voices rose and embraced the Peace Torch.
The rain cleared in time for the students and teachers to come out onto the field.
The teachers took the Peace Torch around the circle of students, much to their delight.
The students then completed a bigger run around the school's playing fields.
With the formalities over there was a little time to speak to the students before saying our farewells.
The women's team ran the Peace Torch on to our next meeting.
At the Taoga Niue Museum.
Here the Peace Torch was shared by the staff and visitors.
There was also a special art exhibition on show, by a father and daughter.
Entering into the Museum – a room which is the shape of Niue, we had time to absorb the history of this country.
Later that day the Peace Run team was interviewed by Niue Broadcasting Corporation.
All of the staff came out to hold the Peace Torch.
