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.

Volunteer
Donate →

Latest News

  • Owhango Alive Newsletter – Autumn 2026

    Owhango Alive Newsletter – Autumn 2026

    Ōwhango Alive Autumn Update 2026 | Community Conservation in Action Welcome to the Ōwhango Alive Autumn 2026 newsletter – a snapshot of the ongoing conservation work, community involvement and environmental education happening in and around the Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve. This… “read more

  • Sally

    Sally

    Committee member – Founder/Trapper/Educator/ Working Bee Coordinator/ Conservation Champion Sally is one of the original driving forces behind Ōwhango Alive, co-founding the group with a deep passion for protecting and restoring the natural environment of Ōwhango and bringing unity within… “read more

  • Mark

    Mark

    Chairperson – Committee Member – Founder/ Head Trapper/Educater Mark worked tirelessly as our Chairperson for 12 years before stepping down in 2024, but after 12 months’ absence he’s been voted back with a supporting group of admin volunteers to help spread the… “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