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... the children listen attentively to clues to guess where we are from. What country is Sarajevo the capital....yes...Bosnia!
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We warmly thank Wilford Primary School with a certificate of appreciation and a painting by the founder of the Peace Run.
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We conclude by planting a tree for peace, a living example to remind us of the Peace Run motto: "Peace begins with me".
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The memory of a wonderful peace ceremony at Wilford Primary School will last forever in our hearts! Our most sincere gratitude and deepest appreciation.
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At "Taita Central School" we give the teachers a warm applause for the wonderful job they do working with the students.
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Three students receive a painting on peace by Sri Chinmoy on the theme "Change" and a certificate of appreciation for receiving us.
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This 6 year old Indian girl remained behind during the run, but the peace torch doesn't leave anyone behind. Here she is happily making a wish for peace with her teacher and her school friend.
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We are warmely welcomed by Mayor Wayne Guppy, Deputy Mayor Hellen Swales, Counselor Blair Griffiths and Counselor Tracey Ultra at Upper Hutt City Council.
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We introduce our names and countries and share our love for New Zealand and the Maori culture, saying how deeply we feel honoured by being able to bring the torch here.
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Mayor Wayne Guppy holds the peace torch and later on reminisces when he was physically lifted overhead by the Peace Run founder. Sri Chinmoy employed a special weight-lifting apparatus to honour men and women of note including Prime Minister David Lange, powerlifter Precious Mckenzie and Olympic sprint legend Carl Lewis.
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Deputy Mayor Hellen Swales, on hearing that the Peace Run team has not had lunch yet, invites the runners for delicious treats and drinks. We are most grateful for such a heartfelt welcome from the Upper Hutt District Council!
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Ananda-Lahari introduces himself: "I come from the country famous for the Alps, cheese and chocolate. Which country am I from?" "Switzerland!" the children guessed.
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After the Peace Run team sang their song the children reply with the touching song "Peace like a river in my soul".