KS cultivates a cultural space at Keauhou Bay

KS worked closely with The Daughters of Hawaiʻi - stewards of the Kamehameha III birth site - to select appropriate plantings for the natural space, located nearby. Above, the Daughters watch as KS students place hoʻokupu at the king's birthsite.

Jan. 29, 2016

Contributed by Leanne Okamoto

Kamehameha Schools has transformed its former commercial property at Keauhou Bay, damaged by the 2011 tsunami, into a natural space filled with lush native Hawaiian foliage. The 5,000-square-foot space is located at the Keauhou Small Boat Harbor.

Because the site is home to Mo‘ikeha Cave – a significant wahi pana (historical place) once used as a refuge in time of war – the three-year project included an archaeological investigation, a preservation plan, and the planting of native hala, lauaʻe, and naupaka.

The former structure was built in 1956 as a residence, and was formally converted to commercial use in the early 1970s. For 40 years the building served various commercial and retail uses. Most recently it was leased by Sea Paradise, Inc., a snorkel and dive tour company now operating at the Keauhou Shopping Center.

The project aligns with the schools’ Strategic Plan 2020 that calls for the incorporation of cultural principles in land management decision-making.

“Initially, KS planned to repair and reconstruct the building that was damaged by the tsunami,” said Allen Salavea, KS Land Planning and Entitlements manager. “Instead, we planned with a more holistic view of the area.”

The restoration of this wahi pana also served to further honor the adjacent birth place of Kamehameha III. KS worked closely with the Daughters of Hawaiʻi, the stewards of the Kamehameha III birth site, to select appropriate plantings for the 5,000-square-foot area.

“Kamehameha Schools invests a significant amount of resources to restore, preserve, and protect the natural and cultural resources that provide health and well-being to Hawai‘i’s people,” said Salavea. “This restorative work is just one component of KS’ stewardship at Keauhou Bay.”

The new natural space is adjacent to Moʻikeha Cave, a significant wahi pana (historical place).