Support Hawaiian Owned Businesses on Maui
- Caitlin Maratea
- Jul 15, 2020
- 18 min read
Updated: Jul 20, 2020
The year 2020 is the year of uncertainty. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone differently, and Maui has had a unique experience thus far. Strict quarantine measures have allowed us to stem the spread of the virus. These measures have also led to financial ruin for many. It’s a bittersweet dichotomy between protecting the most vulnerable among us, as well as our finite health care resources, and protecting Maui’s economy.
Additionally, residents are experiencing a time of reflection. Unemployment might be amongst the highest in the country, but who could have dreamt that we would see this time of rest for the land and surrounding waters? Though tourism drives much of Mauiʻs economy, deliberation has centered around how to move forward with sustainable tourism in the future. What we were experiencing before was by and large, not sustainable. Much remains uncertain.
As we slowly start to emerge from isolating at home and reopen the islands to travel, how can we, as residents and visitors alike, honor and support this extraordinary island? Descendants of ancient Hawaiians live and breathe this respect for their island home. Their example teaches us that kuleana (responsibility) for the health of a community and the land and waters that allow it to thrive, is of paramount importance. By supporting Hawaiian culture, history, arts, organizations, and businesses, we honor the heart of what makes this place home or what calls us to visit Maui, and help ensure its prosperity in the future.
What follows is a list of Hawaiian owned businesses and organizations. I hope that this resource serves to unite residents and visitors in bolstering Maui’s local economy by uplifting Hawaiian heritage. Perhaps you already know and support each business on this list. Maybe some you have heard of, but haven’t experienced yet. You might be looking to visit Maui in the future and want to learn more about the culture, history, and how to support local businesses. I hope this resource reaches a diverse audience. This directory is ever-evolving, and submissions are always welcome. While extensive research went into each listing, it is still possible that I made mistakes. I welcome corrections. I tried to be respectful to Hawaiian language punctuation, but as a non-speaker, mistakes were likely made in this regard as well. The intent is to highlight businesses and organizations owned and operated by those of Hawaiian descent, those who promote Hawaiian culture through multigenerational history and/or community activism, and some Maui born entrepreneurs. I thoroughly enjoyed compiling this information, learned so much about the Maui community in the process, and I hope you find this resource helpful. Support local, get involved and let’s uplift Maui together.
Activities
Aloha Ocean Adventures
Surfing and the ocean are intrinsic to Hawaiian culture and way of life. Many visitors to Maui seek surf lessons to experience this peaceful and rewarding sport. There is no shortage of surf schools dotting the Maui coastline. However, this particular company provides a wealth of knowledge of Hawaiian history and culture as a part of their surfing experiences. Hawaiian owned and operated, owners Keoki and Ikaika are accomplished surfers and passionate about sharing their knowledge and expertise with their guests. What better way to support local business, learn a new skill or perfect your surf skills, and learn more about Hawaiian culture all in one go?!
Kalama Park, Kihei
808-374-2828
Aloha Missions
There is no shortage of activities available to experience Maui’s natural beauty. But what if you are looking to learn from an authentic cultural experience while exploring the island? That’s where Aloha Missions comes in. Maui raised owners Tamika and Lesley create customized missions that inspire their guests to love Maui through learning about Hawaiian cultural practices. Learn the art of lei making while visiting the Maui Native Nursery in search of flowers. Or visit a taro patch and learn the methods of planting and harvesting taro to make the traditional Hawaiian staple, poi.
They are also deeply involved with uplifting the local community through voting campaigns and community outreach. Supporting local is layered, and voting with your dollars will touch many of those layers when exploring and learning about Maui with Aloha Missions.
Restaurants/Bars
Poi by the Pound
Poi by the Pound is where to go to get authentic Hawaiian food. Owner CJ Hookano started selling poi (traditional Hawaiian dish made from fermented taro root that is baked and pounded into a paste) door-to-door with his daughter. Eventually, they expanded into a small restaurant in Kahului and provided catering services for events.
Whether you live on Maui, are looking for amazing Hawaiian food catered for your wedding or event, or just simply wanted to experience a from-scratch authentic meal, Poi by the Pound is a perfect local business to support.
430 Kele St Kahului, Maui
808-283-9381
All Kaina Grindz
Three generations come together to share their love of cooking with the Maui community. Located upcountry, in the Kulamalu Town Center, All Kaina Grindz serves a plethora of fresh dishes, including Kim Chee Fried Rice, Loco Moco, Kalbi Short Ribs, Pork Belly Congee, and loads more creative dishes and sides. I especially loved a social media post from one of the owners about what they do:
“Dreams do come true! The sky is the limit; just do it. I get to do what I love with my family. We work hard, we love, we cook, we feed until hearts are content, and we ain’t done yet. Mahalo to my family for having my back and making my dream a reality. The grind is real, it’s hard and endless, and also very rewarding. Stay focus, keep your heart open at all times, and over everything stay blessed.”
When you find yourself in upcountry Maui, support local and fill your belly with All Kaina Grindz.
Kulamalu Town Center near Long's, Pukalani
808-385-6501
Goods and Services
KP Construction & Excavation
Straight out of high school, owner Keliʻi Pawai started working for a local construction company and learned the trade. Fifteen years later, still working for the same company, his boss retired and handed over the business to him. He has maintained a successful business focusing on big and small projects all over Maui, such as rock structures/walls, cess-pool conversions, landscaping, and irrigation. Years of experience in the business makes KP Construction a multi-talented resource for your project needs, and supporting them keeps funds in the Maui economy.
Kamalani Window Tinting
Daniel Kamalani was born on O’ahu, moved to Maui, and has been tinting since 1991. Whether you are looking to complete an automotive, residential, or commercial window tinting project, Kamalani Window Tinting has you covered. Support this local window tinting business with the added benefit of providing UV protection for you, your loved ones, and whatever’s inside your home!
1980 Main St, Wailuku
808-727-2585
kamalanitinting@gmail.com
‘Opihi Maui
Based out of Kula, ʻOpihi Maui is a small sign-making business that focuses on spreading Hawaiian culture, values, and language. Their custom made signs draw inspiration from their kūpuna (ancestors) and the ʻaina (land). Their unique designs are a perfect addition to any home on island or provide an artful way to bring the aloha spirit to your home on the mainland.
44 Pea Place, Kula
opihimaui@gmail.com
Lola & Elia Brand
Jess, the owner of Lola & Elia, designs ʻohana (family) inspired handmade children's clothing. Each item is pressed at home by her. The name comes from her two daughters. The drive behind the clothing designs is not only to perpetuate the Hawaiian language but Normalize it. I love that. You can find her clothing on Etsy.
Tops Roofing
In business since 1972, Tops Roofing provides commercial roofing, residential re-roofing, repair, and new construction services. They also offer inspections!
1762 Lower Main St Wailuku
808-244-9116
The Foam Company Bodyboard Shop
This locally owned bodyboard shop opened in 2003. They seek to propel the sport and provide quality boards, fins, and apparel to enthusiasts. Instead of picking up the generic plastic-wrapped Costco board during your next Maui visit, consider supporting this local business instead. To residents who love to bodyboard, The Foam Company has you covered.
Queen Kaahumanu Center
275 W Kaahumanu Ave unit 1H01 (across from Kohoʻs restaurant)
808-873-7833
Hoʻomana Spa Maui
Hoʻomana Spa celebrates a long lineage of traditional Hawaiian healing through traditional Lomi Lomi massage and other healing practices. This tranquil spa is nestled in Makawao and is owned by native Hawaiian Jeana Iwalani Naluai and her husband. The property features four treatment rooms, a bathhouse, native botanical gardens, and two guesthouses to rent for Lomi Lomi training. Maui residents are blessed to have this outlet for relaxation and self-care. On an island where hotel spas are plentiful and convenient, visitors should consider escaping to a smaller, more private experience while supporting Hawaiian owned business and traditional Hawaiian practices congruently.
808-573-8256
reservations@hoomanaspamaui.com
Joslynn Ikeda Photography
Joslynn grew up in Kanaio, Maui. Photography is her art, and she has a unique talent for capturing love, happiness, and complex emotions in photographs. Her passion for capturing special moments is what makes her images so compelling. Her pricing packages are clear and straightforward, and she is offering discounted rates for July and August 2020 during this difficult pandemic. Check out her work on her website and Instagram, and support local by hiring her for your next event or family photo session.
808-856-5648
Maui Grown 808
Maui Grown 808 is a certified nursery specializing in tropical plants for retail export throughout the United States. They opened in Lahaina, Maui, in 2013. Partners Mario Siatris (master gardener and weaver) and Uʻi Kahue (F&B/hospitality expert) came together as cultural practitioners to promote native plants' uses. Their woven products, such as coconut pāpale hats and vases, are especially impressive!
808-633-3247
Lahaina.mauigrown.808@gmail.com
Kolonahe Creations LLC
This Hawaiian owned and operated floral company provides stunning floral pieces for any occasion; weddings, events, flower arrangements, arches, sympathy pieces, specialty leis, authentic lei poʻo (head lei), you name it! They use the haku (braided) and wili (twist) lei making method for their lei poʻo. There are so many occasions that can benefit from beautiful floral designs from Kolonahe Creations. They can even ship inter-island. Are you getting married on Maui? Encourage your planner to support the local community with your wedding budget. Residents have a resource for any event that allows them to keep their funds on Maui as well. I was stunned by the beauty of Krystale’s creations when checking out her Instagram page. I wish I had found her before my wedding!
Makawao, Maui
808-870-7831
Kōkua Diaper
Kōkua Diaper is the only Native Hawaiian and ʻohana-owned cloth diaper delivery/laundry service. They offer a weekly supply of organic cotton diapers delivered directly to you. According to their website, 7.747 million disposable diapers end up in Maui’s landfills in one year. With finite land, we all must take steps to reduce our single-use waste, and this is one of the many ways families can do that. They are a small business, thus are currently servicing the Haʻikū, Makawao, Paʻia, Pukalani, Kula, and Central Maui areas. Contact them if you live on the South or Westside.
808-573-1236
Haleakalā Supah Shots
From her Insta: “Hawaiian girl bringing good health & vibrance with some nutrition, foodie flair, and wisdom from our ancestors. Hot, healthy, Hawaiian!” Tina Kekoʻolani’s Haleakala Supah Shots features elixirs made from Hawaiian chili peppers, promoting wellness and longevity. Three flavors include passion fruit, Kula strawberry, and pineapple/Thai basil. She started with a booth at a community event near her home in Kula. She sold out within hours. Check her out, sip to your health, and support Hawaiian owned at the same time!
808-357-1927
Akina Tours and Transportation
The Akina Family started a legacy of transportation services in 1928 when founder Alexander Boniface Akina drove his kids and neighbors’ kids to school from Kihei to Wailuku. His business has taken on many forms, including taxi services, school bus service, tour operations, airport shuttles, and has been passed down through 3 generations. You have likely seen their colorful tour buses zipping around Maui. Whether you require transportation service for school functions or sports events, wedding guest transport, or cultural Maui island tours, Akina Tours and Transportation can get you there.
140 Alahele Place, Kihei
808-879-2828
Culture and Art
Nā Koa Brand
I’m happy to share so much positive information about his brand. They aim to create subtle, yet powerful pieces of art with inspiration from Polynesian tattoo styles. The artwork translates into apparel and quality crafted jewelry designed by the owners themselves. Owners Daimus and Shanna Kanahele started their business in 2013 and named their brand to signify living life to the fullest, without fear. Nakoa means bravery, and their split-off brand, Hoʻomana means empowerment; two ingredients that make a full, meaningful life possible.
Almost all of their materials for their clothing and accessories are sourced from Hawaiʻi. By supporting this local business, you are not only keeping the funds on Maui but also supporting other local vendors. It’s a win-win!
Queen Kaʻahumanu Center across from Forever 21
808-214-5089
Kumu Cards
Are you looking to learn more about Hawaiian language and learn some history along the way? Do you speak the Hawaiian language already, but want to share it with others? Kumu Cards is a Hawaiian owned grassroots education company that focuses on keeping the Hawaiian language (ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi) and ancestral knowledge alive in peoples’ daily lives.
Purchasing a deck of their flashcards serves not only as a great learning tool for you, but a portion of each of their sales also goes to helping Hawaiian language classes.
Native Intelligence
Located in Wailuku, Maui, Native Intelligence is a retail space resource for Hawaiian craftsmanship and knowledge. As self-described:
“The goal of Native Intelligence is to champion cultural traditions, craftsmanship, and good designs while perpetuating Hawaiian values. By showcasing local artisans and creatives who strive to protect and evolve the culture, Native Intelligence is an advocate for both culture and community.
Our mission is to create a retail environment allowing customers to experience a wide selection of merchandise that is Hawaiian by definition. Neither a museum nor gallery, Native Intelligence strives to be a constantly evolving retail space that has something for everyone.
Working with community leaders and neighborhood schools, we hope to extend the educational programs and resources beyond our doors. As our name infers, Native Intelligence encourages the efforts of those who exemplify the best and brightest in Hawaiʻi and Polynesia.”
Whether you are looking for Leis, woodwork, Hula supplies, books, apparel, or art, Native Intelligence presents the beauty of Native Hawaiian cultural craftsmanship and design.
1980 Main St #2 Wailuku, Maui
808-249-2421
Secrets Hawaiʻi
Secrets Hawaiʻi is an online marketplace that features organic goods, arts, crafts, lei, and zero waste equipment. The owners are seventh-generation descendants from Hawaiʻi. They are committed to making Maui sustainable through practicing the lifestyle of old Hawaiʻi and organic farming techniques. They are a sovereign business created to support Ahupuaʻa (native land divisions) Restoration projects in Koʻolau, Maui. They are also famous for their coconut candy!
You can find loads of information on their website about local events and issues, protecting and restoring Maui’s water rights, and restoring stream flows, amongst other focuses. If you want to support Hawaiian culture with your dollars, they make it easy with Apple Pay.
SuiKeala Jewelry
SuiKeala Jewelry is made from native Hawaiian species of plants, carefully preserved in resin to form unique and beautiful creations. Owner Sui Joao is from Molokaʻi and spends much time respectfully gathering native gems to include in her jewelry. The whole process takes about a week. Her goal is to adorn her customers with wearable pieces of art that spread appreciation and awareness of native plants that go unnoticed by many. Each piece of art comes with information about the plant and why it is unique.
808-553-3433
laulani1@yahoo.com
Earth Elements Maui
Quality, handmade jewelry from Honokohau, Maui? Yes, please! Earth Elements creates elegant ocean-centric pieces with quality and craftsmanship in mind. Custom designs are available as well. Visit their website for their latest designs.
1 Honokohau Bay, Honokohau
808-856-1902
Lodging
Ala Kukui
Ala Kukui is a breath-taking Hawaiian cultural retreat in serene Hāna, and as its name meaning “path to enlightenment” implies, it is much more than just a retreat. The Executive Director and Hāna resident, Kauʻi Kanakaʻole, added a cultural element to this refuge for healing and rejuvenation. Ala Kukui’s space serves as a resource for the local Hāna community to share their culture. They host cultural programs, workshops, and events for the local community, and retreat participants are offered the rare opportunity to learn cultural traditions from the surrounding community. All of the staff are long time Hāna residents.
Retreat offerings include nutrition/culinary education, Hāna farm-to-table catering, wedding coordination, massage therapy, Ayurvedic consultations, cultural workshops, and much more. At the time of writing during the COVID-19 pandemic, this location awaits reopening to out of state travelers. They will be offering discounted rates to kamaʻāina guests starting in July, 2020. Please respect the wishes of Hāna residents and do not attempt to visit Hāna until visitors are welcome.
4224 Hana Highway, Hāna
808-248-7841
Maui Seaside Hotel
Established by Hawaiian native and WWII veteran, Richard Kimi in 1956, Seaside Hotels is one of the very few independently run hotels in Hawai’i. Their family-run approach and commitment to hospitality have kept many guests returning to their Maui and Big Island locations for years. Ditch the resort fees and support local Hawaiian hotels.
100 W Kaʻahumanu Ave, Kahului
808-877-3311
The Mauian Hotel at Napili Bay
This 44-unit beachfront hotel has been owned and operated by a Hawaiian family for several years. This location is perfect for easy access to Napili Bay and is great for families. The low-key ambiance, excellent breakfast, and lush gardens make this hotel the ideal place to kick back and relax beachside.
5441 Lower Honoapiilani Road, Napili
808-669-6205
Hawaiian Culture Non-Profits
Kahanu Garden
Kahanu Garden is one of the five gardens of the non-profit, National Tropical Botanical Garden. It was established in 1972 near Hāna, Maui, surrounded by one of Hawaiʻi’s last undisturbed hala forests. The botanical garden’s collection features plants traditionally used by Pacific Islanders, most notably its breadfruit collection. Bamboo, banana, calabash, coconut, kava, kamani, loʻulu, sugarcane, taro, turmeric, vanilla, and bitter yam is also featured. Kahanu Garden also contains the 3-acre Piʻilanihale Heiau, which is believed to be the largest ancient temple in the Hawaiian Islands with construction dating back to the 14th century!
Visitors to Kahanu Garden will learn about the cultural relationships between people and the plants transported around the Pacific on ancient voyage canoes. At the time of writing, this venue is temporarily closed due to the Hāna road closure. Please respect the remote community and do not attempt to drive to Hāna until visitors are welcome.
650 Ulaino Rd, Hana
808-248-8912
Maui Nui Botanical Gardens
Maui Nui Botanical Gardens dedicates itself to the protection of Maui’s native plants and cultural heritage. They collect, cultivate, and distribute native and Polynesian-introduced plants to teach the relationship these plants have with our economic, social, and cultural livelihoods. They hire local cultural practitioners to teach their crafts to visitors and have created partnerships to expand their community outreach and conservation efforts. Every dollar contributed goes directly toward the preservation of Native Hawaiian plants and the upkeep of their collection.
Admission for members, Kamaʻāina, Keiki, and Kupuna is free. General admission is $10. Free on Saturdays!
150 Kanaloa Ave, Kahului (across from War Memorial Stadium)
808-249-2798
Hui o Nā Wai ‘Ehā
Hui o Nā Wai ‘Ehā was established in 2003 to address the negative impacts caused by the dewatering of the Nā Wai ‘Ehā streams by sugar plantations and corporate water companies. Their mission revolves around the restoration of streamflow in Waikapū, Wailuku, Waiehu, and Waiheʻe streams to protect the natural and cultural resources related to practices of Native Hawaiians, as well as to engage the Maui community through water resource management education and outreach.
They are active in local politics and have partnered with Maui Tomorrow Foundation, Earthjustice, and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to ensure mountain to ocean (mauka to makai) streamflow in perpetuity, safeguard groundwater, facilitate safe passage for native aquatic species, restore water rights to kilo farmers, and organize the community in support of their initiatives.
A link to support this critical work is listed below.
Or send a check to:
Hui o Nā Wai ‘Ehā
213 West Waiko Road
Wailuku, Hawaiʻi 96793
Mauna Kahālāwai Watershed
In short, this Olowalu based organization works diligently to protect the forests of the West Maui mountain. In Hawaiian, the name Mauna Kahālāwai means House of Water. Established in 1998, MKWP manages the native forests of West and South Maui. They protect the fragile ecosystem from invasive and feral species, control weeds, plant native species, and monitor watershed health. This work helps to ensure a continuous supply of freshwater for Maui.
You can donate to this organization with your time or money. An application to volunteer is on their website, as well as methods to donate.
Mail checks to:
Malama Kahalawai, Inc
PO Box 13240
Lahaina, HI 96761
Kahoʻolawe Island Reserve Commission (KIRC)
KIRC was created to manage the Kahoʻolawe Island Reserve while it is held in trust for a future Native Hawaiian sovereign entity. State funds are allocated to restoration efforts with core programs focused on sustainability, restoration, monitoring, planting native species, eradicating alien species, faunal restoration, archeological protection, maintaining cultural protocols and practices, and outreach. Kahoʻolawe was transferred to the US Navy by Eisenhower in 1953 for use as a bombing range, post Pearl Harbor. The deed was not returned to the state of Hawaiʻi until 2003! Efforts of KIRC strive to make up for the lost time in preserving the beauty of Hawaiʻi’s last remaining uninhabited island and its surrounding waters. If you are lucky enough to volunteer for this organization, not only do you contribute to environmental restoration, you also get to see a part of the Hawaiian Islands that very few ever experience in person.
Visit their website for more information on internship opportunities, volunteering, or donating.
Kipahulu ʻOhana
The Kipahulu ʻOhana is a grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1995. Their list of beneficial community programs is endless. Their traditional Hawaiian wetland taro farm, Kapahu Living Farm, is located in Haleakala National Park. In partnership with the park services, they host educational programs, tours, and provide an abundance of poi (which is processed in their own commercial kitchen) to the local community. Their Malama I Ke Kai program focuses on shoreline management supervising an ʻopihi "rest area" or no take zone, and working to instate a Community-Based Subsistence Fishing Area (CBSFA).
This is only a snapshot of what this prolific organization does for the Maui community through the wisdom of their ancestors. Visit their website to learn more about their outreach and to donate!
Hui No Ke Ola Pono
Hui No Ke Ola Pono is a private, not for profit community-based health enhancement, disease prevention, and health care center. They provide programs revolving around nutrition, health management, and health care referrals working within a standard of conduct that reflects Hawaiian values. They are one of the five Native Hawaiian Health Care Systems created under the Native Hawaiian Health Care Act of 1988. Their mission is to improve Native Hawaiians' health by empowering the present and future generations to be their own health care advocates. They integrate medical care with traditional Hawaiian values, beliefs, and practices. Although their mission focuses on the Native Hawaiian community, they will not turn anyone away.
While we struggle to adjust to life during a pandemic, access to medical care is of paramount importance. Visit their website for more information if you need medical assistance. If you are able, a donation to this cause is a noble investment in our Maui community's health.
Wailuku:
Wailuku Cameron Center
95 Mahalani St Room #21, Wailuku
808-244-4647
Hāna:
Hāna Community Center
5101 Uakea Road Room #D18
808-442-6860
Farms and Locally Grown Food Distribution
Maui Third Wave
Majority Native Hawaiian owned and dedicated to growing food, medicine, and a future for the Hawaiian people. Maui Third Wave operates under the B corporation status, meaning they have pledged to meet the highest standards in social and environmental performance. According to their website, 85% of the food consumed on Maui is imported. By combining traditional Hawaiian and modern growing practices, their mission is to produce not only “Better than Organic” fruits and vegetables to be consumed by the community in which there are grown, but also a profitable agriculture system for indigenous Hawaiians and long time residents.
As laws start to change regarding cannabis, MTW is also in negotiations to lead the Maui-grown CBD oil industry. Stay tuned and support Hawaiian owned businesses!
Hoaloha Farm
Bobby Pahia is one of many Maui farmers working to re-establish kalo, also known as taro, and other traditional foods referred to as “canoe crops,” carried to the Hawaiian islands by the early Polynesians. Kalo, especially, is more than just food to Hawaiians. It’s part of their cultural identity. Monocrop agriculture directly affected the decline of canoe-crop growing. Imagine rice disappearing from the Asian diet.
His farm supplies ingredients for restaurants such as Old Lahaina Lūʻau, Aloha Mixed Plate, Star Noodle in Lahaina, and Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop in Olowalu. He is also the president of the Hawaiʻi Farmer’s Union United Mauna Kahalawai Chapter.
Mahele Farm
Mahele means ‘to share or divide equally.’ Mahele Farms is Hāna’s community farm whose mission is, "Our mission is to operate a productive community farm that serves as an educational, sustainable, and healthy food resource for the isolated Hāna, Maui region.” It began as a collaboration between the previously mentioned Kahanu Garden and Ma Ka Hana Ka ʻIke, Hana School’s building, and construction program, as well as Hāna School’s Agricultural Program. They engage the community by inviting all residents to farm together. This promotes a self-sufficient lifestyle for this rural community, more reflective of how Hawaiians maintained a healthy population of millions before transitioning to the large percentage of imported goods we see today.
The farm offers Volunteer Days on Tuesdays and Fridays. They encourage people to contact them ahead of time if interested in volunteering to learn about and help perform their farming practices.
mahele.farm@gmail.com
808-248-8905
Nohoʻana Farm
Nestled along the Waikapū Stream in Waikapū Valley, Maui, Hōkūao Pellegrino has managed to return his family’s property to the flourishing kalo farm it was before the 1940s when a large sugar company diverted the stream to irrigate sugar cane fields. Now that sugar is no longer a dominant business on Maui, many of Maui’s farmers with Pellegrino included, are working to restore water rights to their lands. Nohoʻana Farm now grows forty-five different varieties of kalo on his two and a half acre property that his family has owned since 1848. He hopes to help fill the 2 million pound gap of taro imported from Fiji each year to meet the 6.5 million pounds of Hawaii’s consumed taro annually (civil eats article).
Nohoʻana Farm currently sells its organic kalo products and other traditional Hawaiian crops, to the surrounding community at an affordable price. They also sell to farm-to-table restaurants such as Kaʻana Kitchen at the Andaz in Wailea, whose Maui born chef, Isaac Bancaco, focuses on local food, unique to Maui.
nohoanafarm@gmail.com
808-430-4534
Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United (HFUU)
Thus far, I know I have only highlighted a mere fraction of the Native Hawaiian owned farms on Maui. Established in 2010, The Hawaiʻi Farmers Union serves as an invaluable resource for local food production and the farming community. “We assert that a multitude of smallholder diversified family farms that implement regenerative techniques in growing and raising our food will create a resilient, vital, and productive agricultural system to better feed Hawaiʻi’s people.” This grassroots organization serves as a voice for farmers, ranchers, and fishermen throughout the islands.
As COVID-19 has devastated the restaurant industry nationwide, farmers have had to pivot from restaurant supply to supplying direct to consumers. HFUU has been working with local farmers and stores to maintain that connection. They have launched a 12 to 24 month plan to support farming communities by increasing and stabilizing domestic food production throughout the state. Community-supported agricultural boxes (CSA) boxes of fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs are available at distribution spots, as well as delivery throughout Maui.
You can find an organized list of available CSA boxes at www.protectourkeiki.org/csa.
Maui Hub is an EXCELLENT resource for ordering your produce direct from farmers online! It’s easy to sign up and pick up your order on Saturdays at one of their many distribution hubs around Maui.
Final Thought
This pandemic might be scary, stressful, and uncertain. Life as we know it has changed drastically since the beginning of this year and we don't know when things will return to normal, or what that normal will look like in the future. But there is one precious thing we can all take from this time in isolation. We can take the time to learn. Learn about your community. Learn about how to get involved. Donate your time and money. Learn about the cultures surrounding you that you might have considered less during your daily grind in the past. For those of us who are lucky enough to call Maui home, and to those we will be welcoming back in the coming months, let's uplift Maui by supporting the Hawaiian culture and traditions that make this place so awe-inspiring.
Mahalo to DJ Illz for the cover photo
Comments