Waimea Valley: The Heart of the North Shore of O'ahu
Return to Waimea!
A new community website-- independently designed and maintained by young Hawaiians from the North Shore of O'ahu, Hawai'i.
Culturally, ecologically and historically precious Waimea Valley was saved from division and development by concerted community action in 2005 and 2006.
On February 1, 2008 this place of traditional Hawaiian power, so beloved by so many around the world, came under the kuleana (stewardship) of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA). We honor the previous service provided by the National Audubon Society as administrator of the Valley for more than two years; the new direction was welcomed by the Hawaiians of the North Shore.
Waimea is the last complete traditional Hawaiian ahupua'a on O'ahu -- from the mountains to the sea -- and it remains whole, so its sacred voices can be heard and respected.
click here to see the original website, created in 1999, updated through 2007
This non-profit community website has no official connection to Waimea Valley administration.
Principles of Ahupua'a o Waimea
The Principles of Ahupua'a o Waimea
This is a public statement developed by some members of the Hawaiian community on the North Shore under the leadership of Kupuna Kawihiokalani (Auntie Betty Jenkins).
These fundamental ideas, based on Hawaiian traditions of ahupua'a leadership, specify how this sacred valley is to be grown, preserved and protected. It is the terms of our kuleana with the land.
Click here to read the Principles of Ahupua'a o Waimea, and to download your copy.
Your comments welcome.
Rebirth Ceremony
August 12, 2006: a moving re-dedication ceremony of Ahupua'a o Waimea, with the recounting of ancestral Hawaiian stories, and hula kahiko led by renowned Kumu Hula Sonny Ching and Kumu Hula Victoria Holt Takamine.
Local Hawaiians present included Auntie Betty (Kupuna Kawohioklanai) Betty Jenkins, Kahu Butch Helemano, and Cy Bridges, representing the descendants of the original people of the Valley. Leaders from beyond the Valley included OHA Chairperson Haunani Apolonia, Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hanneman, Lt.Governor of the State of Hawaii Duke Aiona, and State Representative Mike Magaoay.
Attended by hundreds of people who love Waimea, this ceremony marked the re-acquisition of Waimea Valley by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs on behalf of the original peoples of the Hawaiian Islands.
Here you can download the official program for the event, with the names of key speakers guests and participants: Waimea Valley Re-dedication Ceremony Program.
