Sacred Landscapes

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is a place where nature and Native Hawaiian culture come together in a powerful way. The park, home to the active volcanoes Kīlauea and Maunaloa, is not just a geological wonder; it’s also a sacred landscape where Hawaiian culture and natural forces are deeply connected. For generations, the Hawaiian people have honored this land as the home of Pelehonuamea, whose fiery presence shapes the islands and represents both creation and destruction.

 

S01 - Episode 1: 'Ohi Wai

 

Duration:

9 minutes, 57 seconds

Discover how Native Hawaiians traditionally collected water through gourds as it filtered through the ceilings of lava tubes, enabling them to survive in the driest of habitats. Former park ranger and naturalist Bobby Camara and park archeologist Summer Roper-Todd are among the experts featured in this documentary.

 

S01- Episode 2- Ho'okupu

 

Duration:

12 minutes, 40 seconds

At the summit of Kīlauea, hula practitioners and offer oli (chants) and other offerings to Pelehonuamea and elementals in this area. Join Kumu Hula Huihui Kanahele-Mossman and Ranger Hoʻolaʻi Miday as they share the function and protocol of hoʻokupu, the action of creating growth.