Mate Dan Wells previously appeared on another reality game show, Lost, in 2001.
Mate Jason Tiner (real first name Michael; Jason is his middle name) was on active duty in the United States Navy when he participated in the program. He advised his commanding officer of his sexual orientation before the show aired and was discharged under Don't Ask, Don't Tell.
The trip was awarded in the form of travel vouchers. James and Wes did not travel together to New Zealand.
The show was mercilessly parodied on MadTV, with cast member Michael McDonald portraying often-emotionally-hysterical female best friend, Andra Stasko.