Fo Guang Shan Christchurch and BLIA South Island held the first 2025 iPure Green Foundation’s global VegRun on 19th September at St. Thomas College in Christchurch, with nearly 150 students participating. BLIA South Island President James LOW led seven BLIA members to cheer on the students.
The VegRun project began in 2023 with the aim of You Run, I Plant Trees. In collaboration with local New Zealand schools, BLIA South Island committed to donate one tree for every 5 kilometres run by students, supporting New Zealand’s tree-planting organization, Trees That Count. As a result, this event will contribute 400 trees to support environmental protection and reforestation across the country.
Before the run, President James shared the significance of the run, thanked the school for its strong support and the enthusiastic participation of teachers and students. Although the morning began with light rain, the weather soon cleared. Students dressed in lively vegetable-themed costumes ran across the field, adding fun and colour to the occasion.
Teacher Blair Scadden shared that the school had set up a 1 km track on the field, allowing students to challenge themselves within a limited time. Most completed at least 10 km, showing great perseverance and determination. Teacher Smith shared that this month marks the school’s Mental Health Awareness Month and it was wonderful to see students running with smiles while contributing to a greener environment. Student Benel expressed that taking part in the run gave him the chance to do something meaningful for the planet.
The Temple gifted students with Three Acts of Goodness pencils and bookmarks featuring Wise Words from Venerable Master Hsing Yun. BLIA members gifted auspicious apples, bookmarks featuring Wise Words from Venerable Master Hsing Yun, and Three Acts of Goodness pencils to the participants. They also presented the school copies of BLIA Reports and 2026 calendars.