In 2020 and 2021, Ōwhango Alive made great strides in conservation, predator control, and community engagement. In 2020, Sally and Mark gave presentations at the Lake Taupō Caravan Club, Rotary meetings, eco forums, Age Concern RSA, and in newspaper interviews. On 27 September 2020, the group celebrated World Rivers Day with a Pestival, bringing locals together for conservation efforts.
In 2021, the group hosted a kiwi release ceremony with a karakia led by Jim Komene, Peter Te Ahuru, Mat Howell, and Paora Haitana. On 28 May 2021, Ngakonui Primary School visited with 53 students, 17 parents, and three teachers. They took part in hands-on conservation activities. On 27 May 2021, Antoinette, a taxidermist, mailed a taxidermied stoat to the team after meeting Sally at a market day stall, showing strong community involvement in pest control.
In June 2021, bat detectors confirmed long-tailed bats (pekapeka-tou-roa) in Ōwhango, proving the success of pest control and habitat restoration.
On 13 August 2021, Ōwhango Alive partnered with Genesis and DOC, signing an agreement at the Outdoor Pursuits Centre. The group also received awards, recognizing its work in New Zealand conservation.
Through pest control, tree planting, and wildlife monitoring, Ōwhango Alive continued to make a lasting impact. It remained frustrating with the slip closing full access and the limitations of Covid impacting mobility across the region.