Once again, Ke Ola Magazine comes to inform with an inspiring article about Hawaiian quilting on the Big Island.  The Third Anniversary Issue of the magazine is out for the month of January/February, and it was hard to choose which one to share.  There are some really fascinating articles in this issue, so be sure to go there yourself, and check it out.  This article is reprinted with permission.  Watch for the magazine on newstands.  It’s free and oh-so-delicious!  Also remember, you can find a link to Ke Ola on the Resources/Links page of our website for an online gander at a Big Island treasure…

Scattered around Hawai‘i Island, small groups of women—and a handful of men—are using passion and knowledge, skill and patience, hands and hearts to save what they say is a dying art.

Hawaiian quilting is literally a labor of love with deep roots in the culture of these islands. Created completely by hand, often with many hands contributing to the effort, Hawaiian appliqué quilts are rarely found for sale, since most are gifted to family and friends, and then handed down from generation to generation, according to Kathy Tanaka, member and spokesperson for Ka Hui Apano O‘Waimea quilt
club in Kamuela.

“Most of Hawai‘i’s master quilters have been practicing their art from childhood, a skill learned at the hips of their mothers and grandmothers who patiently and lovingly shared their knowledge of the craft and wisdom on how to—and how not to—work on a quilt,” Tanaka says.

One of Ka Hui Apano O‘Waimea’s founding members, 92-year-old Stella Akana, is among the kūpuna in the group who advise those new to quilting: “Always quilt with good thoughts. If you are angry or agitated about something, put it down,” a sentiment that is based in Hawai‘i cultural traditions and the belief that what you do should be done from the heart with aloha. Only then is it pono (in perfect balance and harmony, proper, righteous, good).

“Stella’s work is absolutely perfect from the patterns to the stitching,” Tanaka says. “She continues to be extremely active and creates large quilts (queen and king sized) in half the time it takes most of us,” she adds.

And time is exactly where patience comes in! To create the larger, queen and king sized quilts requires a minimum commitment of two years and often up to five years, depending on how much time you spend on the project each day, according to one of the group’s long-time members and past presidents, Irene Kubo.

Ka Hui Apano O‘Waimea, the oldest quilt club in the state of Hawai‘i (founded in 1972), is one of five formal clubs dedicated solely to Hawaiian quilting on Hawai‘i Island with locations stretching from Volcano Village to Waimea. Currently, Ka Hui Apano O‘Waimea is comprised of 45 members with 20 or so actively attending monthly meetings held the last Saturday of the month at St. James Episcopal Church in Waimea. Members bring quilts in progress, share ideas and talk story from 9 a.m. to noon.

Kubo, who served as president for nearly two decades (“Most of the ‘80s and ‘90s,” she recalls), joined  Ka Hui Apano O‘Waimea in 1976 and says that one of the group’s objectives—and indeed, its biggest challenge—is perpetuating the art of Hawaiian quilting by encouraging more young people to get involved.

“Most of us are retired with time to devote to quilting; we need more young people to keep it going. About five to 10 years ago we enjoyed a swell of strong interest in the art of Hawaiian quilting, but now it’s waned again; it seems to come in waves,” Kubo says. “It’s not only the beauty of the art, but the camaraderie we all enjoy that we want to share and perpetuate—not to mention quilting is the best and cheapest therapy there is,” she quips.

An encouraging sign: the club’s current president Cyndy Martinez oversees monthly meetings with both daughter and granddaughter at her side.  In addition to family recruits, the club generates new interest by its Hawaiian Quilt Show held every other February (on the last Saturday of the month) at Kahilu Hall in Waimea. The next club show takes place in 2013, according to member Mary Hinck, as this February, 2012, the group is joining forces with all North Hawai‘i quilting clubs to present The Festival of Quilts, featuring quilts of various styles and techniques. The one-day show, she says, will take place in conjunction with the annual Cherry Blossom Festival in Waimea on Saturday, February 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. While most of the quilts will be on display only, a small number will most likely be offered for sale, as well, Hinck says. Clubs presenting their work are the Sew N Sews of Waikoloa, Anuenue Quilters of North Hawai‘i, Mauna Kea Quilters, Laulima O Hamakua, Sew Fun After School Program and Ka Hui Kapa Apana O‘Waimea.

Traditional ancient Hawaiian bedcoverings were made of kapa, a cloth made from the inner bark of native trees. Strips of this bark were beaten and felted together to make a smooth cloth that was soft to the skin. Kapa moe was kapa made into a bedcovering. Kapa moe was made in layers similar to today’s Hawaiian quilt, which emerged in the 1800s. The layers of Kapa moe were connected only at one end so individuals could adjust the number of layers required, depending on the temperature outside. Often the kapa was scented with fragrances made from native flowers, and the top sheet of kapa was dyed and stamped with an overall graphic design. Some quilts suggest the traditional Hawaiian appliqué designs found in kapa moe, but the kapa designs were geometric as compared to the flowing designs of Hawaiian appliqué quilts emerging over the past two centuries.

It was following the arrival of the first New England missionaries to the islands that native Hawaiians began to use fabric. The missionary women taught them the fine art of needlework through their patchwork quilts which were made from scraps of fabric—an early American tradition.

It did not make sense to the Hawaiians, who had no scraps, to cut up bolts of fabric into little pieces and sew them back together. A popular story says a breadfruit pattern was the first truly Hawaiian quilt design, and it remains the “trademark” design of a Hawaiian quilt. Some Hawaiian women laid some fabric on the grass to dry, the story says, when they noticed the leafy shadow cast upon it from the branches of the breadfruit tree overhead. A Hawaiian woman went to the fabric and cut out the pattern, then laid it onto another fabric and stitched it, thus the birth of the first Hawaiian quilt—an appliqué quilt, as opposed to patchwork. From there, many designs based on plants and flowers were created by the talented Hawaiians, who caught on quickly to the process.

Now, in Hawaiian tradition, you should start with a breadfruit design and you will have a fruitful life, never hungering for wisdom or knowledge. This tradition of starting with the breadfruit is a very spiritual journey and will ensure that Hawaiian quilting becomes a part of your life.

Today’s quilters like to flock together in groups. The first club, Ka Hui Kapa Apana O‘Waimea, was formed on July 29, 1972. With a State Foundation on Culture and the Arts Hawaiian Cultural Studies grant, the Hawaiian Civic Club of Waimea initiated a two-year workshop studies program on Hawaiian Quilting. The evident widespread interest in Hawaiian quilting encouraged those involved to continue by creating an organization devoted exclusively to Hawaiian quilting. Ka Hui Kapa Apana O‘Waimea was founded as a non-profit organization with two essential objectives:  to gather members of mutual interest in friendly fellowship and to preserve, perpetuate and encourage the art and culture of Hawai‘i in the field of Hawaiian quilting. To accomplish these objectives, the organization developed a system for its members to share their Hawaiian quilt expertise and knowledge. Through generous cooperation, members contribute Hawaiian quilt patterns to a collection file that the organization maintains and makes accessible for use by all members. Over the years, this process established a large pattern library that forms the foundational structure for continual instruction.

The group participates in numerous community festivals each year, Badua says, offering free classes and small samples to festival-goers. In addition to these annual festivals, they take the art of Hawaiian quilting into classrooms at local schools and to various clubs and organizations on the island.

“Whenever and wherever we have an opportunity to teach, we do it,” says Badua, who took over the leadership reins from Kubo in 2000, holding them through 2010, when Martinez stepped in. Teaching is one of the best ways to spread awareness and appreciation for this Hawaiian art form, she says.

Contact writer Margaret Kearns at margaretekearns@gmail.com.

Find a club near you on Hawai‘i Island and find locations to view year-round displays of this treasured Hawaiian art form in the listings that follow:

Hulihe’e Palace in Kailua-Kona.  75-5718 Ali‘i Drive. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Closed major holidays.  The summer palace for Hawaiian Royals, original furnishings and artwork are on display. For more information visit: Hulihe ‘e Palace.

Lyman Museum & Mission House in Hilo. 276 Haili Street. Open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Closed major holidays. Featuring numerous examples of traditional Hawaiian art and furnishings, including Hawaiian quilts. For more information visit: Lyman Musuem.

Aloha Quilters of Kona. This club meets at Wallace Hall in the Christ Episcopal Church, Konawaena, on the third Saturday of each month (except November and December). For more information, contact: saraalv07@msn.com.

Ka Hui Apano O ‘Waimea. Members meet at 9 a.m. on the last Saturday of the month (except November and December when they meet on Wednesday) in St. James Circle at St. James Episcopal Church, Waimea. For more information, phone: 775.0765 or email:
rktanaka@hawaii.rr.com.

Mauna Kea Quilters’ Guild. Established in 1977, the group meets the second Saturday of each month (except November and December) from 9:30 a.m. to noon in the Thelma Parker Memorial Library meeting room, Waimea. For more information, phone: 937.2159.

Tutu’s House. A non-profit community center in the Kamuela Business Center, 64-1032 Mamalahoa Highway, Waimea. Offering numerous classes and presentations, the Tutu’s Quilters class meets each Monday at 9:30 a.m. For more information, phone: 885.6777 or email:
tutus@tutushouse.org.

Volcano Quilt Guild. Located in Volcano Village, this small group meets at 6 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of each month. For more information, phone 967.8080.

Hawaii Island Quilt Supplies (Some retailers listed below offer classes, as well. Contact them directly for details):

Dragon Mama, 622 Kamehameha Avenue, Hilo, 934.9081.
Specializing in Japanese fabrics and kimonos.

Fabric Gift Shoppe in Kona Old Industrial Area, 74-5599 Luhia St
Unit D-5. 329.8177. Great selection of fabric, notions and patterns

Kilauea Kreations, Volcano Village, 967.8090, and Kilauea Kreations II, 680 Manono Street, Hilo, 967-8090. Featuring
Hawaiian prints, batiks, and Moda hand-dyed fabrics.

Kimura’s Fabrics on Highway 11 in Kainaliu Village, 322.3771.  Kimura’s stocks a huge selection of fabrics as well as notions, craft supplies and Hawaiian quilt kits.

Quilt Passions, Kailua-Kona, in King Kamehameha Mall. Offers classes for adults and keiki (call for times). Open Mon-Fri 10 – 5; Sat. 10 – 4 329.7475 www.quiltpassions.net

Top Stitch, 64-1067 Mamalahoa Highway, Kamuela, 885.4482.  A small shop with many supplies for both Hawaiian and American quilting styles. They sell fabrics, notions and gadgetry for the quilter and carry an extensive inventory of Hawaiian appliqué pattern books, Hawaiian quilt block patterns and Hawaiian quilt pillow kits.

Now in its 10th year, the Institute continues to welcome high profile artists who combine talent and aloha. While the Institute showcases both international and uniquely local traditions, the emphasis is on a friendly spirit of cooperation and nurturing. Combined with the glorious setting, this welcoming atmosphere gives the Waimea ‘Ukulele & Slack Key Institute a special magic that make it one of Hawaii’s most enjoyable celebrations.

Open to everyone, from beginners to experts, and non-musicians as well, the Institute offers public concerts, workshops, private lessons, a Talk Story stage and an evening jam session in which the students have a chance to actually trade licks on stage with the featured artists.

Workshops cover a wide range of topics designed to help you improve your skills, advance your understanding and maximize your enjoyment of playing or simply listening to Hawaiian music. Whether you are already an accomplished player, just starting out, or simply curious about this wonderful music, you are sure to enjoy the Waimea ‘Ukulele & Slack Key Institute.

The Institute’s culminating moments are best captured in two evening concerts where all the jamming and sharing of music comes together on stage in two dynamite nights of music.

There is no charge for admission to events in this series. Presented through the generous support of the Richard Smart Fund, the SFCA, Native Arts & Cultures Foundation and the NEA.

The following events are planned as part of the Institute, to be held at the Kahilu Theatre in Waimea.

WAIMEA, HAWAI‘I ISLAND—In conjunction with the 2012 U.S. Cherry Blossom Centennial in Washington D.C., the Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival marks its annual celebration Saturday, Feb. 4 with the planting of cherry tree seedlings gifted from the Embassy of Japan.

The living gift of friendship commemorates the first planting of Japanese flowering cherry trees in the nation’s capital and is part of a program to spread the trees into many U.S. states. The two varieties of seedlings to be planted in Hawai‘i were specially chosen for Waimea’s clime by Dr. Tetsuo Koyama, a Honolulu-based botanist formerly of The New York Botanical Garden.

In its 19^th year, the festival showcases the 60-year-old cherry trees planted at Church Row Park and the Japanese tradition of viewing them—hanami. The event includes a variety of activities 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at venues throughout Waimea—look for pink banners identifying site locations from the Parker Ranch Historic Homes on Mamalahoa Hwy. 190 to the Hawaiian Homestead Farmer’s Market on Hwy. 19.

Enjoy an all-day lineup of Japanese and multi-cultural performing arts, plus hands-on demonstrations of bonsai, origami, traditional tea ceremony, fun mochi pounding and a host of colorful craft fairs. New this year is a Festival of Quilts display featuring the handiwork of all six local quilt clubs. Enjoy free shuttle transportation among most venues.

Activities include:

• Entertainment

• Live music
• Hula
• Taiko Drums
• Bon Dance

• Demonstrations

• Japanese Cooking
• Quilting
• Mochi Pounding
• Bonsai

• Food, Arts and Crafts

• Craft Fairs
• Art Shows

For info, 808-961-8706.

Plan to visit the Volcano in the daytime, and take in the concert in the evening at Kilauea Visitor Center, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Wednesday, January 18, 7 pm.

For a taste of Kenneth Makuakane, check out my favorite of his CDs, and better, download a pdf of all the lyrics and translations from his website.

Especially in Hawaii you will hear the classic sounds of the Island captured in the mele and dance of the people.  Hawaiian music has a magic to carry you “home” again, even when you take yourself away.

Listen! Enjoy, and partake of the essence of the Island!

Another installment from our Island Treasure, Ke Ola Magazine – a glimpse into the life and culture of the island from the view of Mauna Kea, the sacred mountain, indeed believed by many to be the most sacred spot on the Island, at least.  Please enjoy, and we give appreciation for permission to share from Ke Ola.  Thank you! and Happy New Year to All ~ from ResorticaHawaii.com

Kuahiwi Kha’o i ka Mlie “Mountain Standing Alone in the Calm”…By Marya Mann

The Summit Pu’u Wēkiu, Sunrise, Fall Equinox, 2011 – Shimmering in the first light of morning at the top of the world, the sun paints brilliant shades of red, orange, pink and gold on the mountain, igniting the tallest pu’u in all of Oceania, Wēkiu Peak, before cascading down the slopes of Mauna Kea and merging into the ‘āina.

This color phenomenon atop Mauna Kea is the manifestation of the deity Kū, spark of life, strength and prosperity, and accounts for the Hawaiian name of the ridge where the summit rises: Kūkahau’ula, “Kū of the rosy-tinted snow.”

The breathtaking scene illuminates the sacred Hawaiian ceremony about to take place. The mixed group, a congregation of Hawaiians and others invited to participate, gathers around a stone altar, built by Hawaiian practitioners to fulfill their mission to protect and honor the ‘āina

Mountain energy has inspired ancient Hawaiian culture—its cosmology, oli, hula and all the arts for millennia. To people like Kealoha Pisciotta, president of Mauna Kea Anaina Hou—a Native Hawaiian organization advocating greater protection of the land —the whole mountain is a sacred outdoor temple, the piko of the island, the umbilical cord where Sky Father (Wakea) and Earth Mother (Papahānaumoku) are connected. This altar on the summit is for making offerings to the ‘aumakua (spiritual ancestors).

This altar on the summit holds fragrant, green offerings to the Akua, nā akua, and ‘aumakua. The offerings, or ho’okupu, were prepared by friends of the Royal Order of Kamehameha I, which conducts ceremonies on the mountain and elsewhere. Blessed by the Ali‘i No’eau Loa, the honored Kumu Hula Paul Neves, they are placed on the altar by Makhtar, a Senegalese disciple chosen by Ali’i to carry the offerings for the people. Every year the Ali’i and spiritual leaders give this honor to someone of good heart, thus completing the closing of the equinox ceremony at the summit.

The ascent, which has been arduous, began ten hours ago at sea level with 40 practitioners now reduced to five, ascending to breathe in the subtle air at almost 14,000 feet. Standing at the summit, each member of the group stands for something larger than herself or himself — for the sun, for the ‘āina, for each other, for the world.

The contingent spends nearly an hour on the top that morning, united by the calling to adhere to the sacred disciplines of the Royal Order and its set of protocols, chants and unifying principles.

“The worship that occurs on Mauna Kea has occurred for thousands of years and has been mostly conducted in private,” says Tom Whitney, a friend of the Order. Recent events, however, seen as encroachments on the sanctity of the mountain — including the proposal to build an 18-story-tall, Thirty-Meter Telescope (TMT) that would disturb cultural view planes, led to a plan, “Onipa‘a Mauna Kea a Wakea,” meaning “stand fast and resist the affront to the Sacred Temple – Mauna Kea.”

Reasserting the right to continue to worship, Kumu Paul Neves, a Chief of the Royal Order of Kamehameha’s Hilo Chapter, Moku O Mãmalahoa, writes, “The upper regions of Mauna Kea reside in Wao Akua, the realm of the Akua-Creator.”

The sacred pilgrimage that led to this stunning sunrise moment atop Mauna Kea began the night before in Hilo at the Royal Order’s outdoor meeting space near Puhi Bay, with the first step of the equinox ceremony.

Sea Level, September 20, 9 p.m. – The autumnal equinox, one of the semi-annual days of equal daylight and night, represents a perfect balancing of natural forces. “Before you have the birth, you have the conception,” said Kumu Paul, his alert, piercing eyes making his point, refined fingers and palms shaping an open basket. “This equinox ceremony is the conception that takes place before the winter solstice, which is the birth. The 2011 solstice will be one year before the important solstice 2012 alignment, a new birth. The fall equinox ceremonies are the conceptions.”

Established by royal proclamation of King Kamehameha V on April 11, 1865, the Royal Order protocols are time-tested. Solemn guards wearing golden shoulder capes emblazoned with crescents escorted the congregants to places in a large circle. A vibrant opening ritual ensued, led by Kumu Paul Neves’ prayers and chants. Four of his kane (male) dancers performed Ha‘a Koa, the Dance of the Warrior.

Ho’okupu were accepted by Kaliko Kanaele, ‘Alihikaua, or captain, of the Royal Order in Hilo, the Māmalahoa chapter of the statewide group. Kaliko blessed and placed offerings of ti and taro leaf, maile lei, flowers and coconut water on a pyramidal lele (wooden shrine). One focus guided the ceremony, a primary concept permeating Hawaiian culture:  “Aloha ‘āina,” love of the land.

The late Hawaiian activist George Helm expressed his thoughts about aloha ‘āina this way: “The truth is, there is man and the environment. One does not supercede the other. The breath of man is the breath of Papa (the earth). Man in merely the caretaker of the land that maintains his life and nourishes his soul. Therefore, ‘āina is sacred.”

The offerings honoring the mountain at this auspicious equinox time were carried in a pilgrimage from sea level to the top of the sacred mountain. The caravan departs to the next ceremonial location.

September 20, 11 p.m. – The next stop was the Shark Stone at Keaukaha Park near Puhi Bay in Hilo. Kaliko, who has led equinox and solstice ceremonies for the past 15 years on Mauna Kea, raised his broad-shouldered arms to greet the crowd encircling the sacred stone under a drizzle of rain: “Aloha, ‘ohana!”

The group responded, “Aloha!” and Kaliko lifted each ho‘okupu to the sky and around the four directions, chanting.

Surrounded by ‘ohana, Kaliko broke open a green coconut, splashed its placental water over sweet potato and maile offerings, symbolizing the start of a new ritual, and said, humbly, “I need enlightenment as much as anybody. Let’s ask Akua to help us grow stronger, with bigger hearts.”

September 21, midnight – The second stop for the caravan was at the Naha Stone, a nearly-5,000-pound holy relic of the Royal Order, a testament to leadership, enshrined in front of the Hilo Public Library on Waianuenue Avenue. The Pohaku Naha, legend tells us, is a sacred rock that was moved by the future King Kamehameha when he was 14. He lifted its staggering weight, end-over-end. In so doing, he fulfilled an ancient prophecy that the stone would be raised by the greatest leader Hawai‘i would ever know. He later united the Hawaiian Islands under his rule in 1810.

September 21, 1:30 a.m. – After midnight, enshrouded by mists and waves of rain, the motorcade moved up Saddle Road to Pu’u Huluhulu, a large hill across from the road to the summit. By this time, 20 or so people had gone their separate ways, leaving a smaller group of pilgrims.

Thirteen years ago, a Hawaiian lele (wooden altar) was built at Pu’u Huluhulu for winter solstice, 1998, the day deemed by cultural leaders as an auspicious time to hold the first public ceremony to protect Mauna Kea.

The same day, Kaliko, along with members of Aloha ‘Āina and Mauna Kea An‘āina Hou, came together to erect a lele on the summit of Mauna Kea, and, at sunrise on winter solstice, 1998, ho’okupu were carried to the top of Pu‘u Kukahau‘ula—the ancient name for the summit cone—laying footprints for others, in future years, to retrace.

September 21, 3 a.m. – Rising above the cloud cover into incredibly clear heavens, the next stop was the Onizuka Visitor Station at 9,300 feet. Under the creamy river of the Milky Way, the procession approached the lele built toward the east in a protected fold of silversword. The stars are bright enough to light this wooden lele, erected at summer solstice, 1999, by the Chiefs of the Royal Order, Māmalahoa, for anyone unable to travel all the way to the summit.

Enveloped in a womb of a billion stars whispering in the pre-dawn chill, the group encircles the lele, and Kaliko performs his final ceremony of the night, placing each ho’okupu on the altar. Shining down upon this scene are the Pleiades (Makali’i in Hawaiian) as well as Cassiopeia, the Big Dipper and other constellations that glittered and spread their amiable light in mists of white across the sapphire sky.

Afterwards, most celebrants drove back down the mountain, leaving just six to rest a little before the last leg of the journey, sunrise on Mauna Kea’s summit.

September 21, 5 a.m. – An hour before dawn, the landscape of the sacred can be most lucidly viewed through the eyes of those who are defining it. Sacred landscape is created, but it is also discovered. It emanates from life itself.

The ancient Hawaiian story of Kūkahau’ula and Poli’ahu, the snow goddess of Mauna Kea, suggests a sacred understanding of the history of glaciation on the mountain. A 400-foot-thick ice cap covered 26 square miles on the summit area, carving steep inclines and leaving huge piles of rocky debris. Mauna Kea is one of the few places in the tropics to have experienced repeated glaciation, especially on an island that lies only 20 degrees north of the equator.

In the story, Kūkahau’ula —Kū, a deity representing the male force in the form of the rising sun—pursues Poli‘ahu, the goddess of the mountain, but is constantly thwarted by the God (Kane) together with frost, snow and freezing rain, as he does not wish to let Poli’ahu and Kūkahau’ula be together. This period of time could perhaps represent the ice ages.

But when the Goddess Mo’oinanea, guardian of Lake Waiau and caregiver of all the divine children, speaks to Kane, asking for his compassion, he finally gives in and lets the two be together at the rising and setting sun times of the day. When Kūkahau‘ula finally embraces Poli‘ahu, her heart melts, the ice age is over, and the resulting snow melt forms the springs and streams that water the land below, providing life to the people and all life forms below.

Unfortunately, in the eyes of Hawaiian cultural practitioners, their version of the deity is being destroyed. According to
Kealoha Piciotta, Poli’ahu’s image and bodily form is being destroyed. “They are altering the images of our deities because the pu’u’s are being leveled and the telescopes are being built on top of her,” she says.

“The cinder cones are sacred in and of themselves because they are burial places and make up some of the kinolau, or the divine bodily manifestations of the gods. For example, you can look up and see the image of Poli’ahu lying down. The real landscape is like a kind of sleeping giant.  You can look up and actually see an image of a woman lying on a bed of clouds. She’s the woman of the mountain. That’s her place, and you can see her very clearly.”

Near the observatories, the practitioners faced east, with the actual summit just to the right. Stars were disappearing and the light of day dawning. Chanting to the sun as it arose over the vast miracle of life below, they welcomed the first clear, beautiful days of early autumn.  It was time to carry the ho’okupu to the actual summit, Pu’u Wēkiu.

September 21, 6 a.m., Sunrise – The summit ahu, the highest Hawaiian ceremonial altar in the entire known universe, is the sacred piko of Mauna Kea. First light of morning illuminates the peak, Kūkahau’ula, again and again, year after year. The actual summit ceremony is private and conducted in silence, except for the leader, alaka’i, who maintains harmony and focus on aloha.

At equinoxes and solstices, marking natural and cyclical time, the wet crescents of coconut lay among ho’okupu to nourish new growth and regeneration of life on the sacred summit. The dance of earth and sun, in a miracle duet, ageless and enduring.

“Hawaiian people are not alone in these ceremonies for keeping track of the motions of celestial bodies and their relationship to observers on earth,” says Kealoha Pisciotta. Hawaiian ceremony keeps time with vast movements and ancient astronomical cycles.

“Mauna Kea is not only the center of Hawaiian spirituality. It is not only the center of 1.8 million acres of ‘ceded lands.’  These are crown lands of the Hawaiian monarchy, transferred illegally to the U.S. on January 17, 1893, and transferred back to the state, in trust for Hawaiians, at annexation in 1959,” says Kealoha Pisciotta.

Can larger telescopes and more development on Mauna Kea exist in balance with the Hawaiian cultural traditions?

“Well, probably the answer is no,” she says. “The no comes not because we’re against science or the university. It comes because we’ve experienced 40 years of broken promises. Their argument right now is that the summit is already destroyed. And so their destroying it further is not significant, and therein lies the problem. The TMT is too big; the footprint is too big.  Enough is enough.”

Contact writer Marya Mann at marya.mann@gmail.com.

Resources

For a visual history of some of Māmalahoa’s activities on Mauna Kea, please visithttp://tomwhitney.net/maunakea.html

For information on the current status of projects and plans that
impact Mauna Kea, please visit KAHEA, kahea.org.

For a report on Mauna Kea’s cultural, religious, and environmental significance prepared by Māmalahoa and Mauna Kea An‘āina Hou, visit:www.rrhi.com/northwesternhawaiianislands/maunakea/MKReport.html

First, check out The Blue Dragon.  Their music for that night is listed as Sons of Kohala, a Kohala based band who plays a mix of contemporary Hawaiian, reggae and classic rock, playing from 6:30 to 9:30.  At 10, “Lorenzo’s Army”, playing classic rock ‘n roll from 10-12.  Visit their website for more information, and a video of “Lorenzo’s Army” on YouTube.  Dinner and dancing under the stars is always a treat at The Blue Dragon.  Reservations, Call (808) 887-7771
Further down the coast, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel will offer New Year’s Eve prix fixe dinner from 6pm to 9pm at Manta and Pavilion Wine Bar.

Or you could choose to dine under the stars with a buffet on the North Point Lawn. There will be live entertainment and midnight fireworks for guests. For reservations call (808) 882-5810

Mauna Lani Bay Hotel’s beachside restaurant Canoe House will offer a lovely five-course dinner from 5:30pm until 10pm. (Use this link and scroll down to see the five-course menu.) From there, festivities will move poolside for a midnight champagne toast and fireworks for guests. Pricing is $180 per person plus tax and gratuity. For reservations, call  (808)881-7911.

* Also at Mauna Lani Bay Hotel, you’ll find an oceanfront New Year’s Eve buffet from 7pm to 10pm. (Use this link and scroll down to review the buffet menu.) At midnight, watch the night sky light up with  fireworks for guests. Pricing is $150 per adult and $60 for children ages 5 to 12. Pricing includes tax and gratuity. For reservations, call (808)881-7911.

* Fairmont Orchid hosts a New Year’s Eve dinner and party including a dinner and dessert buffet, hosted bar, Hawaiian arts and crafts, moonlit canoe rides, Polynesian fire spectacular, dancing, midnight champagne toast and masks. This celebration will go from 7pm to 12:15 am. Tickets for the dinner and show are $200 plus tax for adults and $125 plus tax for guests under 21. For reservations and more information call(808)885-2000

* Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort invite you to ring in the new year at their special New Year’s Eve Luau. The evening includes a luau feast with an imu ceremony plus a countdown of New York’s midnight, which will be at 7pm Hawaii time. The luau begins a 5pm Hawaii Time and goes until 8pm. Pricing is $88 for adults and $40 for kids. Call (808)886-6789 for more information and reservations.

* Hilton Waikoloa Village will host a New Year’s Eve celebration from 7pm to 1am in the Monarchy Grand Ballroom. The celebration includes specialty dinner stations, gourmet coffee station, two drinks per person, party favors, midnight champagne toast, midnight countdown, balloon drop and entertainment. Pricing is $129 per adult, $89 for teens and $49 for children ages 5 to 12. Tax and gratuity are additional costs. Reservations are required. Call (808) 886-1234 Extension 54 to reserve. See this link for more information.  There are  a few more events at Hilton Waikoloa Village , including kids and teen parties, that you can see here.

* You’ll find a New Year’s Eve buffet at Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort from 5pm to 10pm. (See the menu here.) Pricing is $88 for adults and $38 for children. Tax and gratuity are extra charges. Pricing includes admission into the New Year’s Eve celebrations that runs from 9pm to 12:30am on the Paniolo Ocean Terrace. See more after party details in the next item. For reservations or further information, call (808) 886-6789      .

* At the  Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort, kick off 2012 in Hawaiian style on the Paniolo Ocean Terrace from 9pm to 12:30am. Includes Evening Tapa’s, Dessert Buffet, Champagne Toast, DJ, Dancing, Midnight Countdown and party favors. Pricing is $35 adults and $15 kids. For reservations or further information, call             (808) 886-6789

These are restaurants along the Kohala Coast resort areas:

Hilton Waikoloa.

Reservations Required Call Reservations             (808) 886-1234      , ext. 54

Water’s Edge Ballroom
Sunday, December 25 / 1 pm – 8 pm

KPC – Kamuela Provision Company
Sunday, December 25 / 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Imari
Sunday, December 25 / 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
Saturday, December 24 at Lagoon Lanai / 7 pm

Christmas Eve Church Services
Saturday, December 24, 7:30pm

Water’s Edge Ballroom

Sunday, December 25 / 1 pm – 8 pm
Reservations Required
Call Restaurant Reservations             (808) 886-1234      , ext. 54

BUFFET MENU HIGHLIGHTS
Hamachi Carpaccio, Island Lime, Lava Salt and Shiso
Spicy Ahi Poketini, Wakame Seaweed Salad
Jumbo Shrimp, Spicy Cocktail Sauce
Kabocha Pumpkin and Shrimp Bisque
Prosciutto Wrapped Scallops, Pineapple Sage Compote
Waimea Greens, Dried Mango, Papaya, Feta Cheese, Lilikoi Emulsion
Sweet Potato Salad, Smoked Bacon and Sweet
Onion Vinaigrette
Hawaiian Style “Waldorf Salad”
Roasted Turkey, Giblet Sauce, Poha and Cranberry Relish, Portuguese Sausage Dressing
Slow Cooked Angus Prime Rib au jus,
Creamy Horseradish
Five Spiced Braised Pork Belly, Coconut Sticky Rice
Crispy Whole Island Fish, Sweet Chili and Ponzu
Dipping Sauce
Mini Chicken Pot Pies
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Holiday Yule Logs, Apple and Mango Strudel
Lilikoi Cheesecake, Chocolate Mac Nut Pie
Chocolate Fountain with Festive Condiments

PRICING
• Adults $69 plus tax and 15% gratuity, includes one glass champagne
• Children 5 – 12, $29 plus tax and 15% gratuity
• Live entertainment

KPC – Kamuela Provision Company

Sunday, December 25 / 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Reservations Required
Call Restaurant Reservations             (808) 886-1234      , ext. 54

PRIX FIXE MENU
APPETIZER
Crispy Kataifi Wrapped Crab Cake, Tangy Lilikoi Aioli

SALAD
Keala’Ola Farm Greens, Poached Island Palm Hearts, Avocado and Tomato, Cider Macadamia Nut Oil Vinaigrette

MAIN COURSES
Roasted Angus Beef Tenderloin, Hamakua Mushroom Port Sauce and Kona Lobster and Winter Squash Lasagna, Roasted Garlic Crème, Sautéed French Beans and
Baby Carrots
– or –
Pan Seared Hawaiian Snapper Fillet, Saffron Fennel Tomato Brodo, Black Shell Mussels, Toasted Parmesan Pearl Pasta and Crispy Spinach

DESSERT
Warm Dark Chocolate Kona Coffee Lava Cake,
Egg Nog Anglaise, Spiced Chai Tea Sipper

PRICING
• $80 Prix Fixe, $110 with wine pairings; $125 with
very special wine pairings; plus tax; gratuity not included
• A la carte menu available

Imari

Sunday, December 25 / 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Reservations Required
Call Restaurant Reservations             (808) 886-1234      , ext. 54

PRIX FIXE MENU
Sushi Sampler – California Roll, Kilauea Roll, Hawaiian Poke Roll, Crab Claw Roll
Sashimi – Ahi and Hamachi Tataki – Hawaiian Chili Pepper, Shiso, Ginger Dressing

ENTREÉ
Mauka Makai – Soy Mirin Marinated New York Steak
CHOICE OF
Soft Shell Crab with Truffle Dipping Sauce
Miso Sake Seared Scallops
Hibachi Grilled Kazu Kona Kampachi
Steamed Rice, Miso Soup, and Tsukemono to compliment
DESSERT
Vanilla Scented Malasada, Miso Infused Chocolate Decadence, Ginger Anglaise
– or –
Passionate Pineapple Cheesecake, Coconut Lemongrass Tea Finish

PRICING
• $80 Prix Fixe, plus tax, gratuity not included
• A la carte menu available

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas

Saturday, December 24
Lagoon Lanai / 7 pm
Come join us for a reading of ’Twas the Night before Christmas and other holiday stories. Milk and cookies will be provided. Complimentary.

Christmas Eve Church Services

Saturday, December 24
Musical Entertainment Main Lobby / 7:30 pm
Candlelight Service / Bottom of Grand Staircase / 8 pm
Celebrate the holidays with Calvary Community Church musical entertainment with singing and hula in the Main Lobby from 7:30 pm – 8 pm, followed by a Candlelight Service at the Base of the Grand Staircase.

I did check for other options, and found that at the Mauna Kea, reservations for Christmas Day are not given until the day OF.

Here are their links and contact info:

I checked around for other options:

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Drive | Kohala Coast, Hawaii  96743

Direct Line:  808.882.5707

Main : 808.882.7222 | Fax: 808.882.5700

Email: NReeves@MaunaKeaBeachHotel.Com

Website: www.MaunaKeaBeachHotel.com

Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel

Hotel Direct  Phone:            (808) 880-1111

Coast Grill

Ocean Terrace

Fairmont Orchid

Looking for an afternoon adventure?  Ocean Rider is the first and only seahorse farm in the world dedicated to preserving the endangered seahorse with the worlds only living gene bank of live, breeding seahorses and seadragons housing  over 30 species here on our 3 acre oceanfront farm at Keahole Point, Kona.

Ocean Rider was started in 1998  by a highly skilled couple that wanted to make a difference.  Without any government assistance, venture capitalist, or angel investors (still self financed today)  and against all odds, they began producing farm raised seahorses for the global pet trade in order to reduce the fishing pressure on the coral reefs around the world. Within 2 years Ocean Rider produced enough  high quality farm raised seahorses to supply the entire global pet seahorse trade, shutting down the collection of wild seahorses forever. Our story has now become a model as to the difference a few people, a good idea, and a  small aquafarm can make in  protecting and reducing the pressure on our coral reefs and sea grass beds.  The technology developed here  for the culture of seahorses is  transferrable to the culture of other exotic marine fish from  the coral reefs to the deep sea paving a way to greatly reduce the amount of  wild  fish taken out of  our ocean. It is our belief that we can bring our oceans back to the level of  health  and productivity  seen at the turn of the century by using this technolgy  combined with conservation solutions that are available to us all.

Our tour is for families and children that want to see baby seahorses, pregnant males, feed and hold seahorses and learn about their natural history. Our tour is also for the intellectual and conservation minded individual who is interested in the technolgy behind the operation of   a cutting edge, organic marine ornamental aquafarm that redefines sustainabiltiy, and explains the realities of ocean conservation today for our world waterways, coral reefs and deep ocean. We will explain what the problems are and offer solutions  that are  real  and inspiring to all of us. We truly believe we can bring our oceans back to what they were without  having  to stop eating fish. In fact we believe that  eating wild fish should be  one of many motivating forces to help save the ocean from further destruction.

On this tour, you will see babies, pregnant males, leafy and weedy sea dragons. You will also be able to enjoy the worlds only sustainable aquarium where more than half the worlds 36 species of seahorses are on display.  There is also an interactive tide pool and fish feeding station for the children and a seahorse only gift shop where the proceeds go to the seahorses.

Plan on setting aside 1 1/2 hour for your visit to the seahorse farm. We are sure you will leave  in awe!

Tours are lead  by  Professional,  Certified   Biologist who are employed at Ocean Rider  with credentials that include:  minimum of Bachelor Degree in Biology, special  hands on training in the culture and  husbandry of seahorses,  special training in environmental biology and marine conservation, and special trainning in public speaking. In other words your tour guide is well educated, knowledgeable and fun!!

Due to strict bio-security protocol you must be on a scheduled tour to see the seahorses.

When  you purchase your ticket on line you we will hold your reservations and tickets for you at the gift shop tour desk check in.  All you will need is your ID at check in time. Please arrive 15 minutes early to check in, wash up, receive your  tour briefing, get your name tag and sign your credit card receipt.

Please note in the comments section your preferred tour time.  Tour times  are Monday through Friday at 10AM,noon and 2pm with the exception of the months of  September, October November and May which have tours at noon and 2pm only. Private tours are available at almost any time. If you would like to bring your school group please inquire about speical school rates.

Remember,  your contribution from your purchase of  tour tickets and gift shop  items stays here, on the ocean rider seahorse farm to support  the continued research, education, conservation  and propagation of the 36 species of endangered  species of seahorses, sea dragons and  Hawwaiian Reef Fish.  Ocean Rider is now actively  researching  the breeding of Hawaiian Reef Fish  such as yellow tangs, angel fish and butterfly fish  inorder to  reduce the pressure on our Coral Reefs here in Hawaii  from collectors and spear fishermen, Ocean Rider is also working with the Country of Tonga to  establish sucdessful breeding of sea cucumbers  for restocking in marine reserves in the remote islands.If you would  like to do get invloved in any of these projects  please  contact  us . You can also  visit seahorsehawaii.org where you can make a tax deductible contribution.  The coral reefs of the world  thank you!!

Tour times are Monday through Frioday at noon and 2 pm. We will be offering a 10am, Noon and 2pm  tour the week of Thanksgiving and from December 19th thtough April 30th and from June 1st until Labor Day.  Click here for directions.

KONA COFFEE PLANTATIONS There are over 600 specialty coffee farms along some 20 miles of scenic country roads. At elevations ranging from 800 feet to 2000 feet on the slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa this is the only place in the world where Kona coffee is grown.

The drive through Old Coffee Towns leads to funky villages that appear to have never moved into the 20th century! Take time to stop at many of these small coffee plantations, farms, galleries and villages to learn about the history of this industry and the lifestyle of island coffee farms.

There are different routes to this experience:

• Take Palani Road (Hwy 190) out of Kailua-Kona to Mamalahoa Highway(Hwy. 180) towards Holualoa. Continue south on Mamalahoa Highway (now Hwy. 11) through more quaint towns to the top of Napoopo Road; or

• Take Highway 11 from Kailua to Holualoa to Mamalahoa Highway(180). Below is just a sampling of the Coffee plantations:

Royal Kona Coffee Mills (808) 328-2511

Kona Blue Sky Coffee Company (808) 322-1700

Greenwell Farms (808) 323-2275

VOLCANIC WINE Nestled 4,000 feet above sea level, between two volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, is the Volcano Winery and vineyard. Sip samples of Volcano Blush, Guava Chablis and Symphony!                                            Volcano Winery (808) 967-7772

VOLCANO NATIONAL PARK (808) 985-6000 The hottest spot on the island is Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park (96 miles from Kona) where the latest eruption of Kilauea continues its fireworks. A main feature of the park is the 11-mile Crater Rim Drive that encircles Kilauea’s summit caldera. The excitement of viewing the creation of land mass as molten lava pours into the surf is NOT to be missed!  In our opinion, though, the best and safest way to see it is by watching the spectacular videos at the Visitor’s Center.  It is after all, a live volcano…unpredictable and more than HOT!  We want you to be safe and sane in your explorations.  And truly, the 20-minute, free videos at the visitor’s center are also NOT TO BE MISSED.  They have original footage of characters like Mark Twain, so you can’t buy them anywhere….

Side by side with this spectacle is the fascinating geography of many past eruptions – craters, steam vents, lava fields, cinder cones and a museum.

Thurston Lava Tube Located in Volcanoes National Park, visit the magical fern kingdom with the dense ohi’a forest that leads to a short walk through the incredible Thurston Lava Tube. The tube was created when the surface of a lava stream hardened when exposed to the air, while the lava beneath kept flowing the 28 miles out to sea. When the lava eventually drained away, it left behind a damp empty tunnel large enough to accommodate a subway train! It takes 20 minutes to follow the loop trail from the parking lot, through the fern forest, down some stairs and into the tube. The view inside is magical!

Wai;io Ridge from the Lookout

WAIPIO (SAY WY-PEE-O) VALLEY Located north of the town of Honoka’a (north of Mauna Lani) along the Hamakua Coast, the Waipio Valley is the largest and southernmost of the seven valleys on the windward side of the Kohala Mountains. A mile wide at the coast and almost 6 miles deep, this “Eden”-like valley is sheltered by cliffs reaching almost 2,000 feet. Waterfalls and flowers cascade from the walls of the cliffs and a stunning black sand beach defines the coastal area. Though once inhabited by 4,000-10,000 people, this Valley of the Kings, is now home to only a handful of taro farmers and fishermen. The view from the overlook is well worth the drive. Reaching the valley below, which is accessed by a steep road with a 25 percent grade, is difficult at best. All vehicular access is limited to four-wheel drive vehicles. Rental car companies prohibit going down this road with their vehicles!! Adventurous hikers may choose to make the hike down by foot – but it is a tough trip up. There are guided tours available by wagon, horse or ATV. Check out our website for more details.

THE BOILING POTS OF WAILUKU RIVER (HILO) The Wailuku River is an 18-mile long path of churning, bubbling, cascading water that flows into Hilo Bay. About 2 miles upstream from Rainbow Falls, is the aptly named “Boiling Pots”. The river churns through a succession of “pots”, seven or eight of which resemble steaming Jacuzzis. Some of the river water flows beneath a level of old lava, then suddenly bubbles up as if it were boiling! The Boiling Pots are about two miles past the Hilo Medical Center, on Waianuenue Drive.

HILO’S LIVING “WALL OF FAME” Banyan Drive in Hilo has been referred to as the “Living Wall of Fame” because of the long corridor of huge old Banyan trees planted by celebrities in the 1930’s. The custom of planting young banyan saplings along the Waiakea Peninsula began in 1933. Each tree has been planted by either a local, state, national or international celebrity in honor of a momentous event. There are 46 trees in all!

CAPTAIN COOK MONUMENT Located south of Kailua-Kona is Kealakekua Bay, a marine life conservation district and an area replete with history. It is here that you will find the Captain Cook Memorial and one of Hawai’i’s finest marine sanctuaries. It is a popular swimming, scuba, kayaking and snorkeling site. Visibility range fro 80 to 100 feet. South of Kailua-Kona on Hwy. 11 to Napoopo Road. For guided snorkel tours, see the references later in this section, or check our website for contact information to schedule.

CITY OF REFUGE NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK   Further South on Hwy 11 to Route 160 at mile marker 104. Pu’uhonua o Honaunau is the City of Refuge Historical Park. This area once offered a safe harbor to defeated warriors, taboo breakers and victims of war who had to swim across a shark infested bay to the compound where they were granted sanctuary. There are temples that hold the bones of Hawaiian royalty dating back to the mid-6th century.

WILD DOLPHIN SWIMS This is about as far away from the commercial tours as possible! Take a comfortable boat ride along the coast and meet up with between 100-200 Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins…any day of the year. Snorkel with the wild dolphins in their natural habitat and be ready for a life-changing experience! The tours are every morning for 4 hours, (9am-1pm). See the references later in this section, or check our website for contact information to schedule a wild dolphin swim.

DEEP SEA/SPORT FISHING When you book your Charter, be sure to specify what type of fishing you want to do. Kona holds more records for Blue Marlin than any other place in the world and is the marlin capital of the world, but it has even more to offer with Sailfish, Ahi (yellowfin tuna), Mahi mahi (dorado), Spearfish, and Ono (wahoo). Most charters are found at Honokohau Marina, south of the Airport and we recommend you go to the Marina and check out your options. See the references later in this section, or check our website for contact information to schedule a fishing expedition.

SNORKEL, SCUBA CRUISES Only the tip of Mauna Kea, the world’s largest active volcano is visible above sea level. The rest of its great bulk, it measures 32,000 feet from the ocean floor and 13,796 feet above sea level, lies fathoms below the ocean in a scuba divers’ fantasy of lava flows, submerged caves, canyons, cliffs and colorful coral reefs teeming with wildly colored sea life. The ocean is typically calm, the weather sunny, and visibility generally in the 100 foot range. Add to that, scores of great diving spots along the Kona/Kohala coast and a variety of Big Island Dive Companies to choose from. See the references later in this section, or check our website for contact information to schedule a dive, snorkel, or cruise.

RIDE THE DITCH! Hawaii’s most Cultural and Historic adventure is back! Introducing Kohala Ditch Adventures, a completely new and ultimate eco-adventure floating in mountain kayaks exploring the famed Kohala Ditch System. Tour begins with an off-road excursion to the launch site in the Kohala mountains. Immersed in a jungle setting, a short hike over a 150 ft. flume overlooking a waterfall and a fascinating earth tunnel is the prelude to your kayak journey.

Kohala Ditch Adventures ………………………………… 889-6000

ZIPLINE

Zipline Canopy Tours……………………………………… 889-5111

HIKING Hawaii Forest and Trail………………………331-8505

Hawaiian Walkways………………………………………. 775-0372

Hawaii Division of Forestry/Wildlife…………………… 974-4221

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park ………………………… 985-6000

BIKING

Big Island Motorcycle Co. …………………… 886-2011

Cycle Kona…………………………………………………… 327-0087

The 45-mile drive along the Hamakua  (Breath (Ha) of God (Makua)) Coast leads past green cliffs, through gorgeous gorges, past waterfalls, jungle vegetation, open emerald fields, and stunning ocean scenery along Highway 19, which runs north-northwest from Hilo.

To start this tour, head north to Waimea, and through on Hwy 19 toward Hilo.  If you don’t plan on coming back this way, (and we suggest you come back via Saddle Road), you might want to drop down into Honoka’a, and backtrack to the Waipio Valley Lookout.

Waipio Valley

Kukuihaele is also in this area.  Eight miles north of Honoka’a, just before Route 240 ends, an unassuming sign directs you to the right to Kukuihaele.  The coastal loop leading to the small, quiet plantation village has no name, but it’s the perfect drive for those spontaneous spirits who come to Hawaii for a little bit of mystery.  Here, you can pop into the Last Chance or the Waipi’o Valley Artworks gallery to make arrangements for a tour of the six-mile deep Waipi’o Valley.  Bounded by 2,000 foot cliffs, the valley is an isolated tropical Eden – it’s hard to believe that it was once heavily populated.

Honoka’a is also one of the Island’s best kept secrets when it comes to shopping for local island treasures.

Back on the road again, heading east and then south as the coastline curves on 19, you will come to Laupahoehoe Park, on the left.  Drop down the curvy little lane to a breath-taking photo op of crashing waves.  You can actually hear the boulders rolling in the surf, so it’s not even an option to swim here, but the pictures are amazing.  Local kids play on and around the dock, jumping and diving into the water.  This park is the location of an annual Hawaiian music festival.

Next on the route, look for Honomu, where you drive four miles inland to Akaka Falls State Park, the home of the 400-foot falls, ‘Akaka and Kahuna.  A 20-minute loop trail will take you to the best viewing spots.  The upper ‘Akaka Falls drop more than 442 feet, tumbling far below into a pool drained by the Kolekoe Stream amid a profusion of fragrant white, yellow and red torch ginger.

Mosey on down the road and turn left onto a four-mile scenic drive to reach Hawai’i Tropical Botanical Garden.  The paved pathways of this privately owned, nonprofit, 17-acre nature preserve meander past waterfalls, ponds, and more than 2,000 species of plants and flowers, including bromeliads, ginger, orchids, and heleconia of every variety.

From Hilo, Waianuenue Avenue splits just above downtown Hilo, and one fork, Kaumana Drive, becomes Saddle Road in the foothills just outside of town.  Saddle Road runs 54 miles from end to end, and on the Waimea side, ends about 7 miles south of Waimea.  To return to the resort area, turn left at the bottom of Saddle Road, and right again  (at mile-marker 11) down the Waikoloa Beach Road, heading toward the ocean.  Once you reach the helicopters at the bottom of the hill, turn left, and you are one mile from Waikoloa Beach Resort.