Experience a Native Hawaiian Fishpond Aboard an Outrigger Canoe
Come and experience one of Hawai`i’s ancient treasures, Ko`ie`ie Fishpond, from the seat of an outrigger canoe as you paddle along the northern coast of Kihei in South Maui, Hawai`i.
The 90 minute tour begins at 8 a.m. with an oli (Hawaiian chant) along the fishpond’s shore followed by a historical glimpse of the surrounding area. After a safety briefing, the tour begins with a light paddle along the outskirts of the fishpond’s walls. From this angle, you can see the extent of the wall’s transformation from a deteriorated crumbling wall to a revitalized Hawaiian cultural treasure. As you paddle further out toward the edge of the fringing reef, you will be exposed to waters filled with marine life, sea turtles, and coral reefs. At this time of year, you may also see acrobatic humpback whales putting on a spectacular show in the far distance.
The view from the ocean looking up toward the peak of Haleakala presents a unique opportunity to view the ahupua`a of Ka`ono`ulu. Here, you will learn about the importance of fishponds within an ahupua`a system (an ancient Hawaiian land division running from the mountains to the sea) and the need for fishpond revitalization. You may also paddle near other fishpond walls located further south of Ko`ie`ie. The morning concludes with a scenic paddle back to shore accompanied by Hawaiian chants and additional historical anecdotes. At shore, you can get an close up look at the wall’s construction and do your part in the preservation and revitalization of Ko`ie`ie Fishpond by placing one or two rocks back on the ancient wall.
This new program integrates the Hawaiian culture in a unique way that promises to make it a one of a kind experience. If you are interested in taking the tour, can call (808) 359-1172 to make reservations or visit www.mauifishpond.com. Tours are offered Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. Reservations are needed and a suggested donation of $40 per person is appreciated. All proceeds of this excursion goes to `Ao`ao O Na Loko I`a O Maui, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that was created to revitalize Native Hawaiian fishponds on Maui, beginning with Ko`ie`ie Fishpond and to preserve the Native Hawaiian culture. Funds are used to support the fishpond restoration, education and outreach programs. For more information, visit www.mauifishpond.com.
Time: 8:00 am to 9:30 am
Cost: A suggested $40 donation to the non-profit 501(c)3 organization is appreciated.
Categories: Outdoor or Beach Event, Non-Profit Community Event, Environmental Event, Cultural / Ethnic, Classes / Seminars / Lectures, Art / Museums
Ko`ie`ie Fishpond
726 South Kihei Rd.
Kihei, HI USA 96753
Island Area: South Maui
Email:
Website: www.mauifishpond.com
Location Details:
Ko`ie`ie Fishpond is located in the ocean fronting Kalepolepo Park, Menehune Shores Condominium and the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary (726 S. Kihei Rd., Kihei). Volunteers meet at Kalepolepo Park.
Location Specifics: Ko`ie`ie Fishpond is located in the ocean. Our partner, NOAA's Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, allows participants to park in their parking lot located at 726 South Kihei Road, Kihei, HI 96753. Additional public parking i
Contact: Joylynn Paman
Phone: (808) 359-1172
Email:
Website: http://www.mauifishpond.com
