EcoQuest - a compassionate, intercultural learning community
Twenty seven years ago, the founders of EcoQuest imagined a learning community where, through education and research, young, motivated people would become catalysts for sustainability. The Ecology in Action programs, based on New Zealand’s unique natural, political and cultural landscapes were created. These programmes have been delivered in partnership with the University of New Hampshire since 1999.
Over the years, EcoQuest was able to expand its vision, reach and activities, and since 2023, the EcoQuest team has been focussed on giving shape to its broadened direction as the EcoQuest Centre for Indigeneity, Ecology and Creativity.
Not only does our learning community engage with a quest for the wellbeing of the natural world and people - we weave together intercultural relationships and understanding to support intricate webs of resilience, science, creativity, and communication for a sustainable future.
We believe well-grounded, well-rounded people have a critical role in the kaitiakitanga (guardianship) of our planet. Our programs are designed for this purpose, and reflect our values. Good hearts, good minds, good people - in science, policy, the arts, and in communities around the globe.
What We Do
EcoQuest offers interdisciplinary, hands-on learning in a vibrant, compassionate, intercultural learning community.
The basis for the EcoQuest philosophy is the idea that sustainability can be achieved only when the natural environment, people and their culture, their socio-political, as well as economic realities and needs are taken into consideration. This is reflected in the interdisciplinary nature of our programs, which provide students with a unique opportunity to experience first-hand how planning, policy and science interact in real world settings in Aotearoa.
We are an NZQA registered Category 1 (The highest!) training provider.
Our Vision
Catalysts for Sustainability and Indigeneity through Education and Research.
Our Mission
To achieve sustainable outcomes through developing awareness of the relationships between the natural and built environments and people and their cultural, social, economic and political realities
To enrich our place and people through learning in- and with communities throughout Aotearoa
To encourage development of the heart and the spirit as well as the mind and body
To foster global stewardship through international and intercultural education
Partnerships
Since 1999 we have delivered the Ecology in Action semester and summer programs in partnership with the University of New Hampshire - Department of Natural Resources and the Environment (NREN).
Programs are accredited by the University of New Hampshire and are open to highly motivated students from around the world.
The EcoQuest Centre in Whakatīwai is the home base for our uniquely interactive programs which encompass applied studies in ecology, restoration ecology and resource management, environmental policy and sustainability, and directed research (semester, 15-weeks); the summer program (5-weeks) includes ecology and environmental policy, planning and sustainability.
The EcoQuest Centre for Indigeneity, Ecology and Creativity (formerly the EcoQuest Education Foundation) was established in New Zealand in 1999 as a Charitable Trust and is registered as a Charitable Entity under the Charities Act 2005.
EcoQuest is registered by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) as a Private Training Establishment under the provisions of the Education Act 1989 and its subsequent amendments. NZQA recognises EcoQuest as a Category 1 Provider (see explanation). NZQA is Highly Confident in the educational performance and Highly Confident in the capability in self-assessment of EcoQuest.
CONTACTS
U.S. Program Inquiries
Director of Admissions
Donna Dowal: (603) 862-2036
email: eco.quest@unh.edu
N.Z. Contact
Director: (+64) 9 232 2501
email: eqhq@ecoquest.co.nz
LOCATIONS
North Island Field Centre
1204 East Coast Road
Whakatiwai
RD3 Pokeno 2473
New Zealand
South Island
Golden Bay
