Walking the talk for world peace

by Caitlin Nobes | 29th September 2009

Being active is good for peace and reducing violence in the world, says Rudolph Steiner School student Fern Davis.

Fern, 9, joined more than 100 others yesterday in walking along The Strand to Mid City Mall as part of the World Peace March.

They ignored grey skies and light rain to spread their message of non-violence and disarmament.

Tauranga Mayor Stuart Crosby was delighted to see young people marching.

"It's about your future more than anything else," he said.

International peace promoter Petra Klein led the march carrying the Nuclear Abolition Flame, lit from the flame in Hiroshima's Peace Park.

She said she wanted people to understand the strength of unity in the name of peace.

"People think 'what can I do?' but for peace to work each single person is important."

Tauranga MP Simon Bridges said it was tempting to think that in safe and prosperous Tauranga peace was not a concern but it was a world issue.

"It is very good to be part of this small but important part of the world march."