Date:  24 July 2024

DOC rangers and community group Ōwhango Alive were joined by Ruapehu District Mayor Weston Kirton to celebrate the re-opening of the track.

DOC Tongariro Operations Manager George Taylor says the slip which closed the track has now been made safe again.

“The DOC team worked really hard to get these improvements over the line for the community who love this place.”

Ōwhango Alive spokesperson Marion Johnston says despite the wet and muddy conditions at the opening event, everyone was happy to celebrate the work achieved.

“We even stopped to admire some whio on the river – obviously they were giving their blessing to the day!”

A karakia and short speeches marked the opening of the track, followed by a ceremonial ribbon cutting where Ōwhango Primary School’s Beau Bryan starred alongside Mayor Weston, Ōwhango Alive’s Colleen Boston, and George Taylor.

Following the rainy ceremony, attendees enjoyed a warm drink and kai at the blissfully dry pavilion in Ōwhango Domain.

Popular with locals and visitors alike, the Ohinetonga Track takes walkers through forest and touches on idyllic spots beside the Whakapapa River.

“Walkers can once again enjoy one of the best views over the Whakapapa River into Tongariro Forest Conservation Area,” says Marion.

To access Ohinetonga Track, turn off State Highway 4 at the ‘Walking tracks’ sign in Ōwhango.

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