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

  • Pippa

    Pippa

    Committee Member/Admin/Trail Cameras When she is not studying Law or working at Blue Hill Cafe, you will usually find Pippa out checking trail cameras and sharing her latest wildlife discoveries with the team. Pippa plays an important role within Ōwhango… “read more

  • 🌿February 2026 Working Bee – Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve

    🌿February 2026 Working Bee – Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve

    Another fantastic effort from the Ōwhango Alive team at our February working bee in the Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve. Ten volunteers gathered at the Whakapapa Bridge, tools in hand and ready to tackle the ever-persistent privet and blackberry. Despite a hot… “read more

  • Welcoming Two New DOC200 Trap Sponsors

    Welcoming Two New DOC200 Trap Sponsors

    Ōwhango Alive proudly welcomes two new sponsors who are supporting predator control in the Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve. Recently, local residents Kim and Owen Petersen joined us on the Boathole Track to attach personalised name tags to their DOC200 traps. Their… “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