Karl’s original plan included visiting New Zealand. You might recall Chronicle Post #4 and the Truro Daily News article from March 18, 1899, titled "Truro Boy Will 'Wheel' The World." His proposed route was ambitious, as outlined below:
Across the Dominion of Canada to Vancouver; thence, by steamer across the Pacific to Yokohama, through Japan and across the Yellow Sea to Shanghai; down the coast of China to Hong Kong and thence across the China Sea to Manila; through the Philippines and across the Minore Sea to Borneo; over the Celebes and Ceram Islands; and across Banda Sea to Papua; thence across Torres Strait to York, in the North of Queensland; down the East coast of Australia to Sydney, New Zealand will be toured from end to end; thence to Hobert in Tasmania, over the Island, and to Melbourne in Victoria. From Southern coast of Victoria, south and western Australia to Perth, and across the Indian Ocean to Cape Town, Africa; North up the coast through Natal, Transvaal, Sofala, Mozambique, German and British East Africa; along the shore of the Red Sea, through Abyssinia, Nubia and Egypt; around the shore of the Mediterranean Sea, through the Barbary States of Tripoli and Algeria to Tunis; thence to the Sicily Isles, and up through Italy and Switzerland, Germany and France, across the English Channel to England; from England across the Irish Sea to Ireland and sail from Cork to Halifax.
While Karl’s journey brought him to Australia, he never did make it to New Zealand. So, I couldn’t embark on my Australian adventure without first travelling “end to end” across New Zealand, fulfilling Karl’s unfulfilled intention to explore it.
Enjoy the photo collages from sidetracked in New Zealand for our next two posts.
Hobbiton is a picturesque working farm turned into a movie set and now turned into The Lord of the Rings tourist attraction. A visit to 'Middle-earth’ is simply magical showcasing the charm of the shire, iconic hobbit holes, and a pint at the Green Dragon Inn.
New Zealand's sheep population is over 25 million so there is a ratio of about 5 sheep per person, which means my proportion of photos of sheep increased exponentially!
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, located near Rotorua on New Zealand’s North Island, is a stunning geothermal park known for its vibrant hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and geysers. This gallery captures the unique colors and natural beauty of the park's iconic features.
The Redwoods Treewalk in Rotorua offers a peaceful walk among the towering trees with art installations along the way viewed from the elevated walkways.
Huka Falls, located near Taupo, New Zealand, is known for its stunning turquoise waters and powerful flow.
New Zealand cities are home to many beautiful botanical gardens. From vibrant plant displays to tranquil walking paths, these gardens offer a serene escape in the heart of the city.
If you are new to the Karl Chronicles, get caught up on our expedition around the world!
Start here: 200 highlights from 200Chronicles
Then get caught up on the rest of our journey, click here for more Karl Chronicles
Click here to check out my art store
The Karl Journey is now registered as an official expedition with the Royal Geographical Society