Protecting and enhancing Ōwhango

Our group’s mission is to protect and enhance the environment of the Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve, Whakapapa River and Ōwhango village for the benefit of the endemic and native flora and fauna and the enjoyment of locals and visitors.

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Latest News

  • Update: Cashing in on Sam

    Update: Cashing in on Sam

    Sam Cash, our newest Ōwhango Alive trapping volunteer, checks a DOC 200, in the Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve today. Sam will be checking and rebaiting his traps fortnightly, and judging by the birdsong in the bush today, our native birds are… “read more

  • Maree 

    Maree 

    Committee Member/Volunteer Weedpuller Maree is usually seen with her whippet Devo in tow.  Her dog loves a rabbit chase – so far the rabbits are safe until they come across a trapline :). Her day job is located in the… “read more

  • World Rivers Day 10th

    World Rivers Day 10th

    Today, Ōwhango Alive proudly celebrated our 10th year of acknowledging World Rivers Day at the beautiful Whakapapa River, Ōwhango! 🌿🌊 A dedicated team of 45 volunteers gathered to plant over 160 native trees along the riverbanks, filling in gaps and… “read more

Our Community

What we do

learn a little more about our backyard

Our Journey

Ōwhango Alive was formed in 2011 by a group of local residents concerned about the lack of birdlife in the Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve. It is now an Incorporated Society. All donations are tax deductible

Discover Ohinetonga

IOhinetonga Scenic Reserve is on the boundary of Tongariro Forest Park which is one of five national kiwi sanctuaries. The reserve itself is home to native birds including the threatened whio (blue duck) and weweia (dabchick), as well as popokatea (whitehead), toutouwai (North Island robin) and kereru (NZ pigeon) and many more.

Join Us

#Volunteering with Ōwhango Alive and in the Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve is a powerful way to give back to the environment, enhance personal well-being, and contribute to the sustainability of a treasured natural space. It’s a fulfilling experience that combines community service, outdoor adventure, and conservation impact.

More Info

We hold regular Ōwhango Alive meetings and working bees. If you would like to find out more about what we do, how to become a volunteer or how to sponsor a trap, contact us. Details in footer below.

Volunteer Opportunities

We are always looking for volunteers to help us on a casual or permanent basis – check out the opportunities here

Pick Me!

“Quiet, calm and completely protected by huge trees, this is a particularly beautiful spot.”

Peter Janssen

RNZ, Best Loop Walks

“Stoked that we have confirmed rare long-tailed bats in the Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve.”

Sally Lashmar

Founder, Owhango Alive