Peace marchers go to great lengths

Shoes, socks and blisters have become of particular interest recently to a small group of dedicated Wanganui people.

These dozen or so people will be taking part in Wanganui's march for peace and non-violence to Wellington – all 207km of it.

The peace walk is just one of many events happening in Wanganui this weekend to celebrate Peace Day on September 21.

The weekend kicks off on Saturday morning with an open air yoga class at the River Traders market. In the afternoon the dedication of the "little hands" addition to the Handspan sculpture will take place at Queens Park, launched by human rights commissioner Roslyn Noonan.

On Sunday at 10am a Love Wanganui celebration will kick off from Majestic Square, and in the afternoon a panel discussion on the topic of "truth, reconciliation and bridge-building" will take place at the Quaker settlement.

But it's the march that will be the centrepiece of the celebrations. Marchers will leave from Handspan after a short vigil at 12 noon on September 21.

Organisers Carla Donson and Krystal Boyes are two of the marchers making the long trek to Wellington.

Carla said she is used to walking everywhere, although admits she has been doing "more than normal" in preparation for the march.

Krystal said running around after her young son "probably keeps me fit enough", although she was worried about getting blisters.

"I'm taking lots of socks so I don't get blisters."

Marchers will head down SH3 then SH1 in stages, and will cover anywhere between 16km and 37km per day.

The march will link up with the World March, leaving from Wellington on October 2. It will end in Argentina in early January.

Another organiser, Gita Brooke, said since Wanganui first celebrated Peace Day in 2002, it has grown in popularity.

"When we realised we had a chance to link up with the World March, we couldn't resist.
"This will give Wanganui the opportunity to be on the world stage in a very positive way."

The marchers still need help with logistics so if you help, or would like to take part in the march or part of the march please contact organisers at wanganui.for.peace@hotmail.com.