'I'd like to compliment you on putting together a truly amazing program. I've done plenty of conservation this side of the Equator and International Date Line, but never have I done work that incorporated so much of the environment and people. The time spent sweating and getting dirty while planting trees, laying track, and pulling invasive species left me feeling great, but working at Avalon and planting trees with the school kids left a mark on my soul that I can't begin to explain. It was wonderful!' Andy Kellner, Madison, Wisconsin, 26 October 06
“The most important part was the mix of conservation work on Maori land… learning respect for culture as well as the environment” Denise deCarion, Berkeley, 25 August 05
“The strengths of the work projects were the heart and soul of everyone involved” Kevin Sammers, Eugene, 25 August 05
“This has been the most memorable and impactful two weeks of my life” Shannon Johnson, Bedford, New York, 15 June 06
“The most valuable thing I will take back with me is the fact that I belong to a Maori family on the other side of the world” Jana Kerschbaumstiener, Austria, 3 August 06
“I have learned that when a group of dedicated and motivated people come together, nothing is unachievable” Crystal Delveese, Roanoke, VA, 28 July 05
“Knowing I can make a difference encourages me to do it back home as well” Amanda Griffith, 10 August 05
“Being in New Zealand has been the most amazing experience of my life. Nothing is going to stop me from returning again to see all the work we have done” Matthew Davis, Beach Park, 15 June 06
“Thanks so much for the experience. There will be nothing so memorable as knowing we gave back to a community that opened its home to us” Stephanie De Boer, Missala, MT, 30 June 05
“This is the best thing I’ve ever done” Monique Collins, Gloucester, MA, 21 July 05