Words and Pics Sally Lashmar
A Special Thank You
Owhango Alive recently gathered to thank Mervyn and Lesley Aitken for their many years of support, friendship and hard work.
Mervyn and Lesley have been part of Owhango Alive since the group first formed in 2011. They were keen to help create a local conservation group for Owhango and supported the group from the very beginning.
Helping Owhango Alive Grow
Over the years, Mervyn and Lesley gave their time, energy and ideas to many Owhango Alive projects.
They joined working bees, helped clear weeds, planted trees and took part in workshops. They also supported many community events as the group grew.
Mervyn became our much-valued Treasurer. For more than 10 years, he carefully managed the numbers and helped keep the group organised.
Lesley also played an important role. She helped write articles, supported group activities and always stepped in where needed.
World Rivers Day
Mervyn attended all of our World Rivers Day celebrations.
Alongside iwi, he offered a blessing for the area, the river and the people gathered. This became a special part of the day and reflected his care for the Whakapapa River and the wider community.
A Farewell Morning Tea
After 15 years of involvement with Owhango Alive, Mervyn and Lesley are leaving Owhango village. They will now live permanently at their Wellington home.
Many people in the Owhango and Taumarunui communities wanted to farewell them. Owhango Alive held a morning tea at Blue Hill Cafe to thank them for their commitment and friendship.
Planting a Kōwhai Tree
As a lasting thank you, Owhango Alive gave Mervyn and Lesley a kōwhai tree.
The tree was taken to the car park area near the Whakapapa Bridge. Mervyn and Lesley chose the place where they wanted it to grow.
They then planted the kōwhai themselves.
It was a simple but meaningful way to thank them. The tree will be a lasting reminder of the heart and soul they have given to Owhango Alive.
Thank You Mervyn and Lesley
Thank you, Mervyn and Lesley, for helping Owhango Alive become the conservation group it is today.
We wish you every happiness in your next chapter. Please come back and visit us from time to time.