Discover the history of Ōwhango Alive and its mission to protect New Zealand’s native wildlife. 🌿🐦 Learn about our predator control efforts, habitat restoration, and community-driven conservation projects along the Whakapapa River. #ConservationHistory
Owhango Alive History
We’re thrilled to announce that Ōwhango Alive has trapped its 10,000th predator! 🎉🏆 A major milestone in protecting native wildlife, this achievement happened on 26 January 2025 along the Peter Lacy trapping line, thanks to the dedication of volunteers Robert and Annemie Peters. Every predator removed helps safeguard our precious native birds and restore the Whakapapa River ecosystem. 🌿🐦 Join us in celebrating this success and supporting ongoing predator control efforts in Ōwhango! #ConservationSuccess #ProtectOurWildlife #PredatorFreeNZ
In 2024, Ōwhango Alive and the Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve hosted several notable events that underscored their commitment to conservation and community engagement. January: Ohinetonga Bat Evenings On 11 January 2024, the first of two Ohinetonga Bat Evenings took place. Led by ecologist Luke Easton, participants gathered at the Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve to observe native pekapeka (long-tailed bats) in their natural habitat. This educational event offered insights into the behaviors and conservation needs of these endangered species. The second session occurred…Read More
In 2023, Ōwhango Alive continued its mission to protect the Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve and engage the community. Several key events strengthened conservation efforts and raised awareness. In January, the year started with an Ohinetonga Bat Evening on 13 January. Led by Ranger Luke, the event gave participants a rare chance to observe pekapeka (long-tailed bats) in their natural habitat. Attendees gathered at Ohinetonga Domain, then walked to Tawa Track at sunset to watch the bats’ flight corridors. This hands-on experience…Read More
In 2022, Ōwhango Alive marked several significant milestones in its ongoing conservation efforts. On 14 January, the group hosted a Bat Evening, featuring a barbecue, a screening of the documentary “Battling Extinction,” and a guided walk in the Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve to observe native bats and other nocturnal wildlife. A highlight of the year occurred on 22 April, when Kiritapu Allan from the Department of Conservation (DOC), in collaboration with Project Tongariro, led a Whio (blue duck) release event.…Read More
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,…Read More
Rare native bats found in Ōwhango Bat detectors placed in the Central North Island township of Ōwhango during June 2021 revealed long-tailed bat (pekapeka-tou-roa) activity on all four detectors placed. See story here
In 2018, Sally and David R created the first official 2019 conservation calendar, boosting awareness and raising valuable funding. On 14 January 2019, Sarah Cull-Luketina’s film screening of Battling Extinction about the endemic long tailed bats (Pekapeka-tou-roa) drew 45 attendees, raising awareness for local conservation. From 24 January to 8 February, a ferret incursion led to 17 ferrets trapped, reinforcing the need for strong predator control. A bird count with audio recordings also launched, improving native bird tracking. The sponsored…Read More
In 2018, conservation and community engagement efforts remained strong, with a diverse range of initiatives supporting wildlife protection, habitat restoration, and public awareness. A stall was set up at White Ribbon Day at Taumarunui Primary School, promoting environmental stewardship alongside social causes. Canoeists reported a large number of whio sightings, an encouraging sign of native and endemic bird conservation. Additionally, Colleen identified several areas where Tutukiwi green-hooded orchids were thriving, highlighting the importance of protecting native plant biodiversity. March saw…Read More
In 2017, pest control efforts showed promising results, with Clive conducting track tunnel monitoring in January, revealing significantly lower pest numbers and a reduced trap catch rate. A new trap line, named the Tawa Line, was established on the left-hand side of the road, further strengthening predator management strategies. Conservation efforts were also supported by community-driven fundraising, with a successful quiz night on 30 July raising $1,140, and stoat tails winning a firearm, which was later sold to generate additional…Read More
In 2016, conservation initiatives continued to strengthen, with a focus on wildlife protection, habitat restoration, and community involvement. Regular maintenance of Good Nature gas-operated traps became a priority, with plans to re-bait them monthly. Jo Douglas generously donated $600 worth of traps, which she sourced from Cmi Springs in Auckland, further supporting pest control efforts. Additional traps were placed around the lagoon, leading to the return of Weweia (Dabchicks), an encouraging sign of native bird conservation. On 20 February, valuable…Read More