Who We Are
We are Nathan and Emilie, and we are passionate about seeing young people transformed through a deep connection with God. Our mission is to equip you with the knowledge, tools, and spiritual rhythms for a connected life of peace and purpose. With over three decades of experience in Christian leadership, education, missions, media, and non-profit organizations, we understand the challenge of staying connected to God and each other amidst the noise and demands of this modern world.
Our Journey
In our extensive work with young people, we have also encountered the cycles of striving, burnout, anxiety and hopelessness that many face. These challenges deeply shaped our mission and inspired this vision for something different: a place where young people can learn to slow down and explore their relationship with God without fear or pressure.
Nathan’s journey has taken him from his role as a medical scientist to international humanitarian worker, from K-12 school Principal to the founder of several outdoor and leadership programs. His experiences have given him an appreciation for the highs and lows of life’s journey, the importance of staying connected to God, the peace that comes from communing with nature and the life that comes from living in true community. He has now dedicated himself to helping others discover the value of living a life of connection.
Emilie’s path has been equally adventurous, from university instructor to television host and Communications Director of a large ministry. She has firsthand experience with powerful influences that can obstruct our path to balanced living and is passionate about connecting others to the true source of peace: the heart of Father God.
Our Vision
Return to Eden, in collaboration with local and international partners serves as a place of reconnection to the things that really matter. To bring people back to the source of their faith, peace and strength. A place to form a deeper and more intimate relationship with God, to discover the peace giving power of nature and the life that comes from true community.
We invite you to join us on this journey and discover with us the true reason we were created; to know God. Together, let’s journey back to where it all begins.
Our Board Members
Tom Hardiman
Vice President, MorningStar Ministries, South Carolina, USA
Jeff Roy
Lead Pastor, The Refinery Church of Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
Ed Perez
Pastor / Teacher
Orlando, Florida, USA
Errol Plowman
Former President of Kimberly-Clark Asia, Sydney, Australia
Wayne Ward
Senior Pastor, New Life Church
Wanaka, New Zealand
Melanie Cusens
RTE Advisor
Wanaka, New Zealand
Emilie Plowman
Pastor / Teacher
Wanaka, New Zealand