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.
Latest News
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280 Native Trees Planted at Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve
The latest Ōwhango Alive working bee brought fantastic community spirit to the Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve, with 15 volunteers coming together to plant over 280 native trees in partnership with the Department of Conservation – Tongariro. This native tree planting effort… read more
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World Rivers Day 2025
Ōwhango Community Marks World Rivers Day On Sunday 28 September, the Ōwhango community gathered to celebrate World Rivers Day, organised by Ōwhango Alive. Despite the grey skies, people travelled from as far away as Wellington and Pukekohe to join the… read more
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World Rivers Day, 28 September 2025
Ōwhango Alive to Celebrate World Rivers Day with Planting and Guest Talk 28 Sept. Ōwhango Alive is inviting the community to take part in World Rivers Day on Sunday 28 September, with a morning of tree planting and a special guest speaker.… 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
Ohinetonga 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
“Quiet, calm and completely protected by huge trees, this is a particularly beautiful spot.”
Peter Janssen
“Stoked that we have confirmed rare long-tailed bats in the Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve.”
Sally Lashmar
Founder, Owhango Alive