Expert tour leaders for customised journeys around the world
We are fortunate to have a number of wonderful tour leaders with extensive experience catering to the unique needs of senior travelers. Our dedicated team shares a deep passion for exploring new destinations and forging connections with people around the globe, and is committed to delivering unforgettable experiences. Explore the world with us and discover tailored adventures designed for mature explorers like you.
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Andy Richards
Tour Leader and Owner
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Lucky to have travelled worldwide, lived in different places and know that travel is special. Leading groups for Maher Tours, it’s about the people, the lifetime experiences, meeting locals. I aim for stress-free, relaxed, fun tours. The greatest success? The lasting friendships made on tour.
Annie Parkinson
Tour Leader
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With a career spanning corporate and retail travel consulting and business ownership and now the rewarding role of tour leading for Maher Tours, I bring a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for travel.
Having explored over 90 countries, I love uncovering hidden gems, revisiting favourite places and sharing experiences that make every tour an enriching and memorable experience. The joy of tour leading comes not only from sharing the world’s wonders but also meeting like minded traveler's to share the fun and laughter along the way.
Annie Selander
Tour Leader
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As a Tour Leader for 25 years, I’m deeply passionate about travel and tourism. Guiding groups to exciting global destinations by ship or land is my forte. With a special love for cruising, I’ve led around 90 groups, fostering familiarity with cruise ships and crews. Emphasizing customer service and safety, I prioritize ensuring tours are not just memorable but also filled with fun and laughter.
Elaine Kelly
Tour Leader
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I feel incredibly lucky to keep exploring this amazing planet as a Maher Tour Leader — combining my love of travel and passion for health in a role that brings both to life. Born in Scotland, I moved to beautiful Wānaka in 2022 with my husband, Gray, after many years living in Dubai. As a qualified yoga and fitness teacher, I’ve been leading retreats around the world since 2016 — sharing experiences that focus on well-being and connection.
Jacky Toepfer
Tour Leader
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Travel is a vital part of my life—from living in Holland and France to recent family adventures. With a background in Physical Education, I transitioned to a career in travel consultancy and education. Thrilled to join Maher Tours, I look forward to enriching clients’ travel experiences and learning together. Tot ziens! A bientôt! Bis bald!
Jools Hall
Tour Leader
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Passionate about travel, discovery, and new adventures! I started working in Switzerland at 18, launching me into a world trip at 21, exploring and working across continents. UK-born, I’ve called NZ home for over 30 years. Former Owner and Founder of a multi-award-winning tourism business for 20 years. I’m thrilled to join Maher Tours, leading and exploring our incredible planet.
Joss Toomey
Tour Leader
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Excited to join the Maher family, I anticipate ensuring your travel is stress-free. Wanaka residents, my husband and I relish mountain biking, skiing, paddleboarding, and boating. My diverse travel background includes consultancy, a year in Canada, and exploring Hawaii, Eastern Europe, Spain, USA, Fiji, Tonga, and Australia. Eager to meet fellow travel enthusiasts, I’m thrilled to share exciting experiences together.
Jude Murray
Tour Leader
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As a passionate independent traveller since 22, I’ve explored 40 countries. Engaging in the tourism industry for 17 years, my guiding journey began on the Greenstone and Routeburn tracks. Now, thrilled to be with Maher Tours, I look forward to leading you on an adventurous journey soon.
Karolyn Cooper
Tour Leader
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Travel has always been a passion of mine, and I feel both excited and privileged to be part of the Maher Tours team. Having lived in Japan, England and Australia, I now call Wanaka home, where I enjoy the outdoors through skiing, mountain biking, and hiking. I look forward to meeting you and sharing not only the journey ahead, but also the unforgettable experiences that travel always brings.
Kerstie Twiname
Tour Leader
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I’ve always believed that the greatest journeys are the ones we share—and my love of travel has taken me on adventures across the globe. Having travelled for work and for pleasure, and lived in three different countries, I've soaked up rich cultures and perspectives along the way. But New Zealand—Wānaka now—has my heart, and it’s wonderful to call this beautiful country home.
Lee Kelly
Tour Leader
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Thrilled to be a Tour Leader for Maher Escorted Tours, I’m passionate about travel, adventures, connecting, and having fun! My joy lies in facilitating transformative life experiences—be it through coaching, retreats, or overseas trips. Excited to embark on an adventure with you soon!
Linzi Ebbage-Thomas
Tour Leader
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My journey with travel began at one, when my family moved from England to Manhattan. Now calling Wānaka home, I immerse myself in its stunning landscapes. Married to Brian, a former Royal Air Force Officer turned ice cream entrepreneur, we explore the natural beauty. Thrilled to bring this spirit of exploration to Maher Tours, I’m eager to accompany you on stress-free, enjoyable travels.
Maree Fitzgerald
Tour Leader
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I’ve been a keen traveller since I first went overseas at 18, on a one-way ticket. I’ve lost track of how many countries I’ve been to, but I’ve travelled to most of the continents. My travels have been as an independent traveller; however I’ve also enjoyed being a Tour Leader for Maher Escorted Tours and especially love connecting other travellers.
Rebecca Chapman-Cohen
Tour Leader
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My journey in travel began with a transformative year on AFS in Chile, igniting a passion for the industry. Armed with a Tourism Diploma and a university degree in tourism and recreation management, I am eager to contribute to crafting memorable experiences for our travellers.
Sarah Vidler
Tour Leader
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A lifetime of exploring and travelling has made me truly appreciate how lucky I am. A career working in the heritage industry, studying and teaching archaeology, and introducing others to the delights of the world has led me to Maher and their wonderful tours. Now all there is to do is share it with as many folk as possible!
Trusted office team creating unforgettable travel experiences
Our office team is the heart of every journey. From carefully planning each itinerary to ensuring every detail runs smoothly, they work tirelessly behind the scenes to make your travel experience seamless and stress-free. With a passion for travel and a genuine care for our travellers, they combine expertise, organisation, and a personal touch to create tours that feel effortless, so you can simply relax and enjoy the adventure.
Andy Richards
Owner & Director
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I am truly privileged to be part of the team behind one of New Zealand’s premier escorted tour operators. I absolutely love being able to create unparalleled travel experiences for our clients, and see the world through their eyes.
I was reminded recently about how fortunate I am, when my daughter asked me to start journalling my travel stories so she can feel part of the journey now and later when she has a family. This is what the joy of travel brings to us all.
Emily Newrick
General Manager
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I consider myself lucky to work for a company that holds customer satisfaction above all else, I enjoy hearing travellers talk about the “journey of a lifetime” they had on the tour, and all the wonderful memories that will stay with them forever. Our small group settings allow travellers to forge friendships effortlessly.
Sarah Newrick
Senior Consultant
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I feel privileged to organise a variety of itineraries and apply past travel experiences into my daily work. The reward from the work is hearing all the travel stories & feedback from our clients, knowing I can help plan a journey where intimate group sizes are not just a preference but a commitment to creating meaningful connections.
Leah Miller
Senior Consultant
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I am fortunate to work at Maher Escorted Tours because it means being part of a team that transforms travel into a stress-free and secure adventure. I play a role in handling logistical details for certain tours, allowing our clients to immerse themselves fully in the excitement of that tour and not worry about all the other details.
Shelley Adkins
Senior Consultant
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I believe that travel is one of the most rewarding investments you can make in yourself. For over 25 years, I’ve had the privilege of helping people discover the world, whether it’s through breathtaking scenery, cultural encounters, or unforgettable adventures. What I love most about being a travel agent is knowing I’ve played a part in creating those special experiences—moments that turn into lifelong memories.
Mary Brittain
Office Administrator
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Being part of a team that truly values meaningful travel is something I deeply appreciate. It’s always a joy to see how our tours create lasting connections — not just with the places we visit, but with the people who share the journey. Our small group approach makes every trip feel personal, relaxed, and rich with unforgettable moments.
Pavla Mertlik
Marketing Consultant
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Choosing Maher Escorted Tours is choosing a workplace dedicated to personalised and tailor-made experiences. Privileged to be part of a team committed to providing the highest level of service, ensuring the safety and satisfaction of every individual traveller. Lucky to be part of a family-owned business that places personal service at its core.