Menehune are often thought of as small people and remembered as hard workers who accomplished a lot. However, others believe they were very large, and their size helped them accomplish many great things. Despite these different perspectives, one consistent theme of the menehune is that they made a big difference in the places that they lived. Their size was not the defining factor of their influence. Their actions showed their ability to build and they have left imprints in the ‘āina with their presence.

Today, our hui (group) is called the “Maunawila Menehune.”  Keiki from Hauʻula have been asked to join this hui based on their desire and interest in the area surrounding the Maunawila Heiau. Being part of this Maunawila Heiau group requires dedication to participating, learning and sharing what is learned with those who come to visit the heiau. While some may see these keiki as too small or too young, we believe they have the ability to be stewards of our wahi pana and the surrounding wahi kūpuna.

This hui also provides a chance for these “menehune” to learn about Hawaiian concepts of time and space, history, archaeology, conservation, scientific process, observation, presentation skills, writing skills and more. The opportunity to participate in a community conservation project with professionals is a process that may lead to future interest or career goals in related fields. There is also a hope that exposure to these subjects and this project will help them understand and feel a deeper connection to this ‘āina that we call home.  It is another opportunity to be part of the re-introduction and conservation of a place that kūpuna have left behind. 

The Menehune program is for 6th graders in Hauʻula or the Koʻolauloa moku. We meet every Wednesday to help care for the Maunawila Heiau Complex. Haumana (students) will learn how to remove invasive species, propagate native Hawaiian plants, protect wahi kūpuna/archaeological features, curate mea kupuna/artifacts, learn Hawaiian cultural practices, and build relationships in their communities. 

For questions, contact Olivia at olivia@hilt.org or call (808) 250-5903