On Thursday 14 August, Ōwhango Alive welcomed 39 students from Turaki Primary School to the Ōwhango Domain.

The day began with a frosty morning. Soon, the winter sun melted the ice, birdsong filled the valley, and it became the perfect setting for outdoor learning.

Learning About Conservation

The students started by meeting their teachers, DOC Community Ranger Clodagh Costello, and the Ōwhango Alive team — Mark, Sally, and Peter. Together, they explained the group’s work in local conservation education.

The children then rotated through activities. Each group had the chance to:

• Explore the traps used in predator control.

• Check several traps in the field.

• Learn about native birds and long-tailed bats.

• Conduct one-minute bird counts to assess bird populations.

These bird counts form part of Ōwhango Alive’s long-term monitoring programme. We carry them out twice a year using the Distance Sampling method, which helps track the positive impact of predator control on wildlife.

Exploring the Ohinetonga Track

Afterwards, the group walked from Whakapapa Bridge along the upstream section of the Ohinetonga Track. They reached the Lagoon before looping back down the road.

Along the way, students spotted frozen puddles. Many couldn’t resist lifting out slabs of ice and playing with them. The laughter and fun made the learning even more memorable.

A Day to Remember

The visit combined hands-on conservation activities with outdoor adventure. Students learned about predator control, discovered native species, and connected with nature.

Ōwhango Alive is proud to share our conservation efforts with such an enthusiastic group of young people. Thank you, Turaki Primary School, for visiting our patch of paradise. 🌿