Your Learning Adventure Starts Here! Apply now!
EcoQuest study abroad programs offer interdisciplinary, hands-on learning in a vibrant, sustainable learning community.
15 Weeks, 16 Credits, 4 Courses - APPLY NOW for FALL '26 and SPRING '27
Ecology in Action Aotearoa semester programs are delivered from the mountains to the sea, in a wide variety of ecosystems in both te Ika a Maui (the North Island) and te Waipounamu (the South Island). Students learn through case studies and hands-on field work.
Directed Research Projects (DRPs) facilitated by EcoQuest are comprehensive field-based studies that equip students with the knowledge and skills required to become effective, modern researchers. All Projects have scientific and societal relevance. We run a number of highly valued longitudinal research and monitoring projects: species, ecosystem, and climate-change focused, freshwater, coastal, and terrestrial. [Ecology in Action semester programs]
5 Weeks, 8 Credits, 2 Courses, 3 islands
A few spaces available for SUMMER '26.
APPLY NOW!
An unforgettable Summer Program in Aotearoa New Zealand. This 5-week program provides an unequalled opportunity to gain academic credits while working toward resilience and a sustainable future. Our unique blend of ecology and policy provides relevant solution-focused skills with global application. You spend time on three islands in the Hauraki Gulf, learn about mainland islands, and different governance models. We link policy, society and the environment. We dig deep into the role of community, of biodiversity on private land, and the links between public good and societal wellbeing.
Why Study In New Zealand?
New Zealand is a young dynamic country with a multi-cultural and plural society, diverse ecosystems and agricultural landscapes. We have a pro-active approach to a sustainable future.
Programs provide rigorous academic pursuit and hands-on learning from the mountains to the sea. Full immersion learning across a range of stunning sites in the North and South Islands.
"One of the greatest things I learned at EcoQuest is the idea that meaningful science has human dimensions"
Natalie Lowell
Who Studies at EcoQuest?
Programs are offered in partnership with, and accredited by the University of New Hampshire. They are open to highly motivated students from institutions across the US and around the world. To date, students from 90 US Universities and Colleges have attended our programs. All students are registered for academic credit through UNH and this credit may be transferred directly to the participant’s home institution.
EQ Alumni Voices
Olivia Decker
University of New Hampshire
EcoQuest Spring 2026
My time at EcoQuest has pushed me in ways I would have never imagined. I have broadened my perspective both academically and culturally, allowing me to see and understand a new worldview. Academically, EcoQuest is unlike anything I have experienced. You are learning all the time, even when you do not realize it. Class could be a traditional lecture, a kayak trip, or even a dinner conversation. While absolutely exhausting, it lives up to the "place-based learning" tagline in the best way possible.
I have found learning about the Māori culture to be one of my favorite parts of EcoQuest. The relationship between the Māori and other New Zealanders ( kiwis :) ) is very different from that of the indigenous peoples in the United States. Learning about and experiencing the delicate balance between preserving the Māori culture while also maintaining a unity among all people in New Zealand has opened my eyes to the nuances of the history and culture of New Zealand. The respect the program has for Māori, their worldview and practices, only gives me more appreciation for EcoQuest as a whole.
You jump on a big learning curve when you arrive at EcoQuest, and while I am still adjusting, my advice is to give everyone a little grace and roll with the punches. Sometimes things do not go to plan (maybe activities run long, roads are closed, or the weather does not cooperate) - it is how you handle those things that makes the day.
Olivia Horwedel
University of Michigan
EcoQuest Spring 2017
EcoQuest was hands down my favorite experience during my four years of college! Being in New Zealand of course is amazing, however, this time was truly special because of the commitment and care provided by the faculty and staff. I learned so much from my time in Aotearoa, traveling, conducting field research, and working collaboratively alongside communities was truly inspirational and illuminated the path I wanted to take in my career moving forward. EcoQuest allowed us to think creatively, learn through various methods, and provided abundant experiences that helped me get to where I am today as a graduate student. In addition to the incredible learning atmosphere, I will be forever grateful for the incredible family I made with the EcoQuest community, students and staff! We are still in touch and they continue to play a big role in my life. Thank you, EcoQuest, for the most wonderful semester of my life! Arohanui! Olivia Horwedel
University of Michigan '18 BSc
University of Washington '23 Masters
University of Washington PhD candidate
Join us for the learning adventure of a lifetime!
Community in Action
EcoQuest is embedded in community.
Students engage in outreach activities with local schools, NGOs, iwi (tribes) and a variety of collaborators. Our activities include habitat restoration, community gardens, citizen science and monitoring projects throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.
EcoQuest supports beneficial outcomes for both the community and planet: healthy environment, healthy people.
News From The Field
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
