Wahiawa, O’ahu —

By Sarah Balmilero and Micah Rabang.

Students of Ho’āla School in Wahiawa, O’ahu continued their learning journey with the Polynesian Voyaging Society, venturing into the nearby town of Hale’iwa. As the school bus approached the boat harbor, excitement reached new highs for the young students when Hōkūle’a came into view. The children hurried down the bus steps and across the parking lot to get a better look at the famed voyaging canoe.

Elementary school students having fun catching plankton. Photo by: Lori Fukuoka

Throughout the morning, trade winds blew against the faces of the eager children while Hōkūle’a rocked gently in the harbor waters. The students of Ho’āla split into groups and cycled through various hands-on activities and dockside lessons.  One of the lessons involved looking at microscopic organisms through various tools, including a state-of-the-art cellscope – a microscope that attaches to an iPhone!

Captain Kamaki tells high school kids about life on Hōkūle’a. Photo by: Tina Markel

At the other stations, crewmembers demonstrated various techniques that apply to the voyaging of Hōkūle’a. The students received the experiences of knot tying, using a star compass,and touring the Hōkūle’a herself.  While atop the wa’a (canoe), students had the opportunity to maneuver the sweep, unfurl her enchanting sail, and observe what life aboard is really like. Wandering about her gleaming deck and climbing into her cozy bunks, the students were forever changed.

Middle school students learn about compasses and the Star Map. Photo by: Lori Fukuoka

Afterwards, the students and crew headed across Hale’iwa’s famous Rainbow Bridge to the Loko Ea fishpond.  They toured the shimmering ponds and learned about fishing techniques, plants, and the Kawailoa Ahupua’a. The ponds were loaded with kaku (barracuda), ulua (giant trevally), and ‘ama’ama (mullet).  The teachers and students (K through 12) intend to return to Loko Ea to work on a service project in the coming weeks.

Ikaika answering questions about the Loko Ea Fishpond. Photo by: Tina Markel