Kula Uka in the Moku ‘O Kula

According to Ancient Polynesia, Kula was comprised of flat and the sloping lands between the uka (inland) and the kai (sea). Many useful products were made from plants growing in the kula area. Kukui trees provided nuts used for oil and lighting. Wauke trees offered bark for the finest kapa. Pili grass for thatching houses grew here.

Since the summer of 2019, Maui Nui Ahupua‘a Project’s project coordinator/designer Vernon Kalanikau has been working with the Upcountry community to gather moʻolelo (stories, legend, history) to help design signs representing each of the 17 ahupua‘a in Kula Uka in the Upcountry area in the Moku ʻO Kula.

A blessing and installation of the first Maui Nui Ahupua‘a Project sign in the Kula Uka was held on September 6, 2022. The first sign, located on the northern boundary of the ‘A‘apueo Ahupua‘a at the corner of Kula Highway and ‘A‘apueo Parkway in Pukalani, is one of 34 signs that will be installed this year.

We extend a big mahalo to the Kula Community Association, Pukalani Community Association, Waiohuli and Keokea Hawaiian Homestead Associations and other residents throughout Ulupalakua who provided their feedback on the flora, fauna and colors that represent each of these ahupuaʻa.

This project was supported by Council Member Yukilei Sugimura and a cultural heritage grant from the County of Maui Office of Economic Development.