Mālama Mauna ʻAla celebration is steeped in Hawaiian culture

May 9, 2016

Leaders from across the state gathered recently at the Royal Mausoleum at Mauna ʻAla to celebrate completion of a nine-year Mālama Mauna ʻAla project that included more than $2 million in renovations and repairs. The sacred site in Nuʻuanu is final resting place for members of the Kamehameha and Kalākaua dynasties.

The event featured a ceremonial meal, a presentation of kīhei to members of a hui who have committed to continue caring for the site, a presentation of hoʻokupu (ceremonial gifts), and a Ka ʻUmeke Hoʻohiki chapel service where members of the hui were presented ‘umeke (bowls) carved from a single milo tree at Mauna ʻAla by master wood carver McD Philpotts.

The ‘umeke symbolize the union and commitment between the aliʻi hui and the State of Hawaii to continue to care for Mauna ʻAla going forward.

Photos by KS photographer Michael Young. Read more about the celebration in the I Mua Newsroom and be on the lookout for more coverage of the event on the news site as well.