Huakaʻi Hele Program

We work with educators, school and community groups to bring awareness about the Hawaiian cultural history of select places in Hilo. The Huaka'i Hele Program focuses on the coastal region of Hilo between Mokuola (Coconut Island) and the Wailuku River. The goal of the Huaka'i Hele Program is to promote awareness about Hilo's rich cultural history through place-based, experiential learning. We tailor each Huakaʻi Hele to meet your goals and objectives of your group.

We do this because we love sharing this knowledge with our community. If your educational or community group could benefit from this program, please contact us.

We do our best to accommodate all request, so advanced planning (at least one month) is necessary.

*Note that the Huaka'i Hele Program is not a private commercial tour. It is a culture-historical program for educators and our Hawai'i Island community.

Hear from past participants

What was most valuable about participating in the Huakaʻi Hele Program?

As a group, we were able to learn the history & cultural significance of the areas our students come from. Much of the information shared was new information and participants were able to make connections to at least 1 thing presented, if not more.

Observing the haumāna being engaged with the moʻolelo through their presence in the environment.

Collaborators & Partners

We have collaborated with a number of local agencies, Hawai'i Island schools, non-profit and community-based organization including the Department of Education Hilo-Waiākea Area Complex, Ka ʻUmeke Kāʻeo Public Charter School, Ke Kula ʻO Nāwahiokalaniʻōpuʻu, First National Futures Program, East-West Center's Asia Pacific Leadership Program, Honoka'a High School, County of Hawai'i Department of Parks and Recreation, Nā Mamo Haʻaheo, Purple Maiʻa, University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, Hawaiʻi Community College, and many others.