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Away for the Winter Incl. Red Centre, Northern Territory & Western Australia

22 day escorted tour departs 10 July 2025

We are delighted to again present this unique Australian tour in 2025. Australia is a ‘big country’ but no other region portrays the vastness, the variety and the beauty of the country more so than the Northern Territory and northern Western Australia. It is a land of spectacular contrasts, incredible mountain ranges, waterways teeming with wildlife and waterfalls cascading over towering escarpments. Enjoy river, lake and harbour cruises, breath-taking scenery of the superb flora and fauna. You will experience warm, blue sky days and mild evenings. The contrast of the outback to the Indian Ocean make the regions a ‘must see’. The tour itinerary will ensure you have an unbelievably “beaut” Australian holiday. The tour has operated so successfully in its current format for a number of years now but each year we still make little changes to further enhance the total experience. There will be many daily highlights in your travels and let’s not forget the delightful towns and cities such as Alice Springs, Darwin, Broome and Perth.

Your tour highlights

  • Ayers Rock 2 nights (sightseeing and evening sunset drinks at the rock)
  • Alice Springs 2 nights
  • Tennant Creek
  • Lunch at “Daly Waters” Outback Pub
  • Mataranka Thermal Springs
  • 2 days Kakadu National Park, including famous Yellow Water billabong cruise and fabulous wildlife and birdlife
  • Darwin 3 nights, including sightseeing and sunset harbour dinner cruise
  • Litchfield National Park, Katherine Gorge Cruise
  • Lake Argyle and magnificent Ord River wildlife cruise
  • Fitzroy Crossing
  • Derby & Boab Prison Tree
  • Broome 2 nights
  • 2 nights Perth with sightseeing

Tour itinerary

10
JUL
Home – Sydney

Today, tour members fly to Sydney. On arrival, we transfer to our Sydney Airport hotel for an overnight stay.

11
Jul
Sydney – Ayers Rock (B, D)

This morning, we return to the airport and fly to Ayers Rock where we are met and transferred to our hotel for a 2 night stay; A leisurely afternoon to relax before we get together for dinner this evening.

12
JUl
Ayers Rock (B,D)

Today, we tour the world famous monolith Uluru (Ayers Rock) which stands 348m high. This world heritage site combines natural wonders with Aboriginal culture. To the west of Uluru, we also visit Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), a massive pile of 36 weathered rock domes estimated to be as old as 500 million years. We have a special evening ahead; we will watch an unforgettable sunset at Uluru over drinks and canapes before we enjoy a buffet dinner under the sparkling outback sky.

13
JUL
Ayers Rock – Alice Spring (B,D)

Leaving Uluru, we travel through some of the most spectacular desert scenery the outback has to offer. You will be amazed at the sight of Mt Conner, often mistaken for Uluru. For the more adventurous, there is the opportunity for a camel ride at a camel farm. Look for the brilliant colours of the McDonnell Ranges as we approach Alice Springs. This afternoon, we visit Desert Park with its Nocturnal House and Nature theatre before arriving at our hotel for a 2 night stay

14
JUL
Alice Springs (B)

Lying in the heart of central Australia, this famous outback town is celebrated for both the natural beauty of the surrounding areas as much as for the extraordinary people who have shaped its history. Today, we tour the sights of “The Alice”. Highlights include the Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical reserve, School of the Air and the Flying Doctor Service.

15
JUL
Alice Springs – Tennant Creek (B,D)

We join the Stuart Highway for the journey north to Tennant Creek. Not to be missed, en route are the Devils Marbles, thought to be millions of years old, giant boulders strewn across the landscape, particularly beautiful around sunset. Tennant Creek is the hub of the Barkly Tablelands, a region of vast grassy plains and home to cattle stations the size of some countries.

16
jUL
Tennant Creek – Katherine (B,L,D)

We continue our journey north through the Barkly Tablelands and its wide warm blue skies. A compulsory stop is at the outback Daly Waters Pub, made famous for its walls that have an amazing collection of memorabilia. Our ‘shout’ for lunch! We continue north to Mataranka Thermal Springs where the crystal clear water of the thermal pool is surrounded by lush, tropical forest (take your togs & a towel). Our overnight stop is at Katherine.

17
JUL
Katherine – Kakadu (B,L,D)

There is time this morning to visit Katherine Gorge where we enjoy a spectacular cruise. Marvel at the sheer colourful cliff walls while the guide explains the history and geology of the area. After lunch, we leave Katherine and head to Kakadu National Park, 20,000 square kilometres of spectacular scenery and brilliant wildlife. We enjoy a 2 night stay in Kakadu National Park

18
JUL
Kakadu (B,L,D)

We have a relaxing morning visiting the Warradjan Cultural Centre, the Nourlangie Rock and Jabiru. We will enjoy lunch before one of our tour highlights, the Yellow Water Billabong Cruise, where we see freshwater crocodiles and the prolific wildlife that abounds in the region. Our cruise quietly immerses us in the wonder and beauty of this wetland habitat.

19
JUL
Kakadu – Darwin (B,L)

This morning, we join the Guluyambi cruise along the spectacular East Alligator River that separates Kakadu from Arnhem Land. We learn about the mythology of this rich Aboriginal homeland and the river’s abundant food chain, as well as the methods of hunting and gathering by the local Aboriginal people. We then view the Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr and after stopping for lunch, we continue on to Darwin for a 3 night stay.

20
JUL
Darwin (B,D)

Darwin is the capital of the Northern Territory and home to a diverse population of over 100,000. Darwin’s warm tropical climate and moderating sea breezes mean that an outdoor lifestyle can be enjoyed all year round. We enjoy a morning tour of the city and surroundings. In the evening we join a dinner cruise on the harbour which hopefully presents us with fantastic views of the fiery sunset over the Indian Ocean.

21
JUL
Darwin (B,L,D)

A free day today. Suggestions – explore Darwin city at your own pace on the city ‘hop on, hop off buses’, or a gentle walk of Darwin’s historical and cultural sights, or the delights of the botanic and orchid gardens. A must see is Aqua-scene, right in the heart of the city, where hundreds of fish arrive daily from the ocean at high tide to be fed by hand. Or maybe just spend some time relaxing by the hotel pool.

22
JUL
Darwin – Litchfield National Park – Katherine B,L,D)

We leave Darwin this morning and travel to the tranquil wilderness area of Litchfield National Park, with its picturesque waterfalls, plunge pools and unusual magnetic termite mounds. See beautiful Wangi and Florence Falls before continuing on to Katherine

23
JUL
Katherina – Lake Argyle – Ord River – Kununurra (B,L,D)

A great day – cross the border into Western Australia and journey into the ranges before arriving at Lake Argyle, which holds nearly 20 times more water than Sydney harbour. You will enjoy the exciting cruise on the Ord River to Kununurra – wonderful peaceful river scenery, followed by the colourful sunset on arrival at our accommodation.

24
JUL
Kununurra (B,D)

We spend the day in Kununurra, with the option to either relax around the resort in the morning, or you may use this opportunity for an optional flight tour to the Bungle Bungles. This afternoon, we visit the Hoochery Rum Distillery for a tour, tasting and afternoon tea.

25
JUL
Kununurra – Halls Creek (B,L,D)

We continue our travels onward to Halls Creek, the home of Western Australia’s Gold Rush in the 1800’s. We visit the fascinating rock formation of ‘china wall’ and the ghost town of Old Halls Creek, located 15kms from the current location of the town.

26
JUL
Halls Creek – Fitzroy Crossing (B,D)

We depart Halls Creek and travel to Fitzroy Crossing with a stop en-route at Marys Pool for a refreshment break. We arrive at our accommodation at Fitzroy Crossing, a small settlement that services the nearby stations and, as its name implies, the crossing point for the Fitzroy River. There will be time to check in and have lunch before we head out to Geikie Gorge, one of the most spectacular gorges in The Kimberley, for one of the highlights of the tour – a spectacular boat trip. With our local guide, cruise through the striking coloured walls, with its abundance of birdlife, crocodiles and rare aquatic creatures.

27
JUL
Fitzroy Crossing – Broome (B)

We visit Derby and see the massive Boab Prison Tree, used as a prison cell in the early days. We then continue on to Broome, the Kimberley’s most southerly town on the magnificent coastline, for a 2-night stay.

28
JUL
Broome (B,D)

Broome is a town where the outback adjoins the tropical coastline. This morning, we tour the historic features of this former pearling capital. See Chinatown and Streeters Jetty, where pearlers once unloaded their harvest. A visit to Cable Beach to see the sun setting over the Indian Ocean is an unforgettable sight.

29
JUL
Broome – Perth (B)

This morning, it is time to farewell our coach captain and the North as we transfer to the airport to join the flight to Perth. On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel for a 2 night stay.

30
JUL
Perth (B,D)

Welcome to Perth, Western Australia’s capital, with its Mediterranean climate, warm sunny blue skies, magnificent waterways, relaxed lifestyle, fabulous beaches and coastline. This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of before enjoying a free afternoon. Tonight we get together for our farewell dinner together.

31
JUL
Perth – Home (B)

We return to Perth Airport to commence our homeward journey, bringing to an end what has been a wonderful tour.

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Tour pricing:

from $16,750

per person twin/double share*

Price From: Share Twin NZD $16,750.00pp | Supplement for Single Room NZD $4,700.00pp | Total Cost for Single Room NZD $21,450.00pp

To secure your place now:

Contact Us for details

Tour Inclusions:

• Economy Class Air Travel from Auckland
• First Class hotel accommodation in cities
• Comfortable hotel accommodation in outback towns
• Air-conditioned coach transportation
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary
(B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
• Prepaid airport/government taxes, security and fuel
surcharges (as at 01/09/24)
• Sightseeing & entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary
• English speaking local hosts/guides in each country
• Tips/gratuities to guides, drivers & staff
• Baggage handling of one (1) piece per person
• Fully escorted by a Maher Tours Leader

Not included:

• Any meals and sightseeing tours not specifically mentioned in the itinerary • Travel insurance – advice and assistance offered • Items of a personal nature such as drinks, room service, laundry, telephone charges etc.

Conditions:

Initial Deposit - Due at time of booking • NZD $6,000.00 per person. Final Payment - Due 10th of May 2025. *Images courtesy of Maher Tours
We had a fabulous trip away. Insight and Avalon were just wonderful, couldn’t fault them at all. Thank you so much for all your input and help.
Europe in Winter, Nikki & Steve
Everything you organised worked really well. The timings and explanations on arrival at places was brilliant. The hotels were all handily located to centre of old towns. The 2 Intrepid Trips provided extra understanding of the areas as did the 3 day Hurtigruten cruise.
Scandinavia, Bronwyn & Gordon
The "Sea Cloud" experience was above expectation and more! All your plans worked perfectly and we enjoyed the Somewhere Boutique Hotel at Voulagemeni. Absolutely no problem with the flights. Our accommodation was more than adequate, food excellent and the service 5+ star. We would strongly recommend this 'once in a lifetime' experience.
Adriatic, Paul & Ann
Overall its was an absolutely amazing experience, thank you for all clear information you had given us, really helpful to figure out where is our hotel and how to move from one place to another. Thank you so much for organizing this trip and doing such a good job.
Europe, Ai Ngo and Adrian
We really enjoyed the cruise and this was certainly one of the highlights of the trip. The Azamara cruise was ideal being a smaller boat (and numbers of people) but still provided great service and entertainment. The cruise we did from Athens to Venice was perfect with a destination each day to visit and a great variety of places. I would certainly recommend this cruise company and this particular voyage option.
Europe, Rob & Nikki
We’ve had a fabulous time in Portugal, outstanding guide, great food and wine and the National Geographic tour was superb. What a wonderful country, lovely people and great sights.
Portugal, David & Jill
We had a fantastic day at Plitvice today - very wet and overcast but absolutely stunning and loved every minute of our 12kms walking and photographing!! Loving our hotel here too ... another perfect one thank you!
Croatia, David & Joss
Sandra and I are back at home now after a couple of great months away.  The whole trip was great, so thanks for your help with the bookings etc. No issues at all. We very much enjoyed the Rhine cruise with Viking. We couldn’t fault their service and effort, and are happy to recommend them to others.  
Europe, Murray & Sandra
The trip was fantastic thanks very much for all your input.  Everything worked seamlessly with the flights, accommodation, and car rentals that you booked for us.  The places you booked for us were all in a good location.   The cycle trip through Burgundy was also definitely a highlight. It was truly a trip of a lifetime with everything that we managed to squeeze in, and having a lot of it organised for us was a real treat.
Europe, Mike & Nicky
Our trip went very well. We loved Ireland with Back Roads, excellent guide and good group. We think of three things, its green, narrow roads and old stone fences! Very interesting history. Hurtigruten had ungraded us to Cabin 601, right at the front with three windows, nice and spacious so very enjoyable. We had rougher seas around the Hebredies and Orkneys but all good.
UK & Ireland, Barbara
Back safe and sound after a wonderful cruise and Greek Island stay. Barcelona amazing and our little hotel was perfect. So handy to everything. The Viking cruise was pure luxury . Food, cabin décor entertainment , just perfect. My favourite places visited were Sicily, all the Croatian coast, towns and villages. Our Greek island stay very good with nice family hotel. Not so keen on the ferry. Like being in a plane. Very quick! Business was great and it would be hard to fly any other way now. Anyway Ian thank you so much for organising a great holiday for us. Very much appreciated. I haven’t completely ruled out travelling again!!
Mediterranean, Lois
Thank you Peter for once again, your meticulous planning for us. The trains worked admirably and we had plenty of time for connections. It is sometime since we have travelled in Europe but we have had a fabulous time despite only three sunny days in UK and Europe. Free use of public transport in Basel and Geneva great. Oyster card worked well in London. Lauterbrunnen was Swiss fairytale. A three day pass meant we did heaps and the weather cleared on our last day so we enjoyed Jungfrau plus views of The Eiger. Lots of Indian tourists/ has featured in a Bollywood movie. Weather didn’t clear in Zermatt/ so didn’t see Matterhorn. Left 42 degrees in Dubai. Sunday breakfast up the Burj. Thanks Peter you are an excellent travel agent.
Holland & Switzerland, Alison
A big thank you for organising bookings for us. Everything went according to plan. Managed to catch everything, nothing delayed , except Easyjet which you kind of expect.
Europe, Lesley
We had an absolutely fabulous holiday.  I adored Switzerland, the people, the scenery, just everything.  Every day was better than the day before, couldn't fault anything. The hotels and transport were spot on.  Simon skied 5 days and I found plenty to do.  It was easy meeting people and exploring by myself. Thank you so much for all your organising.  This trip has given me so much confidence to explore other European countries and winter climates.
Switzerland, Lynne