WHAT IS MAUNAKEA? 

Mauna a Wākea (also known as Maunakea) is a dormant volcano on Hawaiʻi Island (Big Island). It is the tallest mountain in the world, standing at 32,000 feet. It is also deeply sacred to the Native Hawaiian people, looked at as a shrine of worship and a home to the Gods. According to ancient Hawaiian traditions, Papahānaumoku (the Earth Mother) and Wākea (the Sky Father) created the Hawaiian islands together. Maunakea is considered their first-born and the piko (umbilical cord) of Hawaiʻi Island, connecting the land to the heavens. 

WHY ARE WE PROTECTING MAUNAKEA? 

We, the kiaʻi (guardians) of Maunakea, are protecting this sacred land from further desecration that the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) will bring. Thirteen telescopes already reside atop Maunakea, but the proposed construction plan for TMT is significantly larger than anything built there before. If completed, the structure will be eighteen stories tall and over five acres wide. 

We are not protestors, but protectors. We are not fighting against science, but against cultural erasure. We believe in standing up for the preservation of sacred land and the rights of the Hawaiian people. For decades, Native Hawaiians have been stripped of their rights and freedom, faced with hardships such as the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom, the bombing of Kahoʻolawe, and the banishment of speaking ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi. Today, both Native Hawaiian and non-Hawaiian locals are priced out of their homes due to the cost of living and rising gentrification. The reason we are protecting Maunakea is simple: We as a people have had enough. Together, as Kānaka Maoli, Kānaka ʻŌiwi, kamaʻaina (locals), and allies, we stand in unison as protectors of Maunakea. 

WHAT IS PUʻUHONUA O PUʻUHULUHULU? 

Puʻuhonua o Puʻuhuluhulu is a refuge that was established by the Royal Order of Kamehameha and the kiaʻi (guardians) of Maunakea to protect this sacred space. It is located at the foot of Mauna Kea Access Road. We provide free healthcare, education, childcare, and food for all those who reside here. 

HOW CAN I LEARN MORE ABOUT MAUNAKEA?

To learn more about our efforts to protect Mauna a Wākea, you can view our information page here or our selected list of press coverage here.

CONTRIBUTING TO THE MOVEMENT

If you canʻt be here physically, there are a number of ways you can contribute to this movement: 

  • Spread the word in person and via social media.

  • Send in donations. 

  • Organize events in your area. If you want to to attend Maunakea Protection Support events near you, ʻŌiwi TV has an active list that you can view here.

PRACTICING KAPU ALOHA 

What is Kapu Aloha? 

Kapu Aloha is defined by many different things. To us, it is a modern expression for many foundational Hawaiian cultural standards that we grew up with. It is Aloha in action, acting with only kindness, love, and empathy. It is making a stand with the true dignity of our Kūpuna. This practice is expected 24/7 within Puʻuhonua o Puʻuhuluhulu. 

How can I practice Kapu Aloha? 

If you are joining us at Puʻuhonua o Puʻuhuluhulu or Maunakea Access Road, you must strictly adhere to the following rules:

  • Absolutely no weapons, smoking of any kind, or alcohol allowed. 

  • Mālama each other.

  • Mālama keiki. Bring your keiki in with a discussion on Kapu Aloha and help them understand the need to be safe and thoughtful of their sacred surroundings.

  • Help with service every day. Help is always needed with the kitchen, crosswalk, bathrooms, donations, recycling/rubbish, donations, and clean up. Especially if youʻre new, give a few hours of your time in service to this Puʻuhonua. 

  • When hiking the Pu'uhuluhulu trail, brush your feet before entering and stay on trails only at all times. 

  • Ask for consent when taking photos, filming, or recording. If you are unsure, it is imperative that you ask first. 

  • If and when actions occur, please film and upload later rather than livestream. Pu'uhonua o Puʻuhuluhulu has its own media team that is critical to our messages getting out to the world. When everyone livestreams, it jams up the signal. Filming of meetings are also prohibited.

  • Be pono! 

The success of this stand depends on everyone's attention to these rules. The stakes are very high and so are the expectations of the Pu'uhonua. We look forward to sharing in kapu aloha for our beloved Mauna in the days to come.

LAW ENFORCEMENT ACTION PREPARATION

How can I avoid being arrested? In the event that law enforcement action occurs, getting arrested isnʻt a viable option for some people. To prevent your arrest, stay in kapu aloha, stay behind the front lines, and follow the instructions given by the kiaʻi leaders and law enforcement. Remember that you do not have to be on the front lines to fully support this movement. 

What should I do if I get arrested? Before you arrive, you should have a bail plan set up and an emergency contact prepared. If you donʻt remember your emergency contactʻs information, you can write this on your arm in permanent marker or pen. 

For personal items such as your wallet, cell phone, keys, and bail money, place this in a “bail bag”. This can just be a Ziploc bag. Hand this bag off to someone you trust who doesnʻt plan on getting arrested.

What should I bring for safety? You should bring water, a bandana, earplugs, and something to protect your eyes and mouth. DO NOT bring any item that could be mistaken as a weapon. Weapons of any kind are not allowed within the Pu’uhonua or the Mauna Kea Access Road and can get you in trouble with law enforcement. 

HEALTH

Can I bring children with me? Please exercise extreme caution when bringing children under five years old. The Mauna Medic Healers Hui team strongly advise ‘ohana to keep children under the age of two at home. They are most vulnerable to experiencing altitude sickness and cannot understand or communicate the onset of symptoms. Please view this advisement from Dr. Kalama Nīheu, the lead of Mauna Medic Healers Hui here (insert link to video). 

How can I prepare for the weather conditions and the altitude? Always stay hydrated, wear weather-friendly clothing, and protect yourself from the sun and cold. If you feel any symptoms of altitude sickness, such as dizziness, nausea, shortness/loss of breath, and/or drowsiness, please visit the medic tent immediately. At its worst, you can have a completely altered mental status. Individuals with heart conditions are strongly advised to stay home because of the altitude. To avoid getting sick from the cold, wear a decent amount of layers. On sunny days, wear clothes that protect you from the sun and wear a decent amount of sunblock.  


DONATIONS

What donations are needed? Every day varies, but you can check the Puʻuhonua o Puʻuhuluhulu Facebook and Instagram for updates. Gift cards and gas cards are always accepted. 

Where do I send donations?  You can deliver donations at the donation drop-off located at the entrance of Puʻuhonua o Puʻuhuluhulu. If youʻ’re off the island, you may send donations in the mail to Keaukaha General Store (11 Silva St. Hilo, HI 96720) or donate through our website. 

When can I donate? Food donations can be delivered any time from 10 AM-3 PM. Other donations can be delivered in-person at any time. 

What food donations are needed? We are currently overstocked on fresh produce, but half-trays of prepared foods are always accepted. 

Where can I donate money? You can donate to our official organizations here.


VOLUNTEER WORK 

Who do I contact to volunteer?  On the weekends, volunteers can sign up at the information tent located at the entrance of Puʻuhonua o Puʻuhuluhulu. Volunteers can also check in at each station to see what is needed. Dishwashing, kitchen, and ʻōpala (trash) work are most needed during breakfast, lunch, and dinner. During the weekdays, check in at each station to see what is needed.  If youʻre interested in volunteering as a medic, please contact the Mauna Medic Healers Hui directly. 

How can I help with laundry or hauling trash?  Please contact Yvonne Mahelona to coordinate this. You can reach her via phone at (808) 436-3424.

PUʻUHULUHULU UNIVERSITY

What is Puʻuhuluhulu University?  Puʻuhuluhulu University is a true Hawaiian place of learning, located within Puʻuhonua o Puʻuhuluhulu. All are welcome to learn at this free university where knowledge of mele and oli, malāma ʻāina practices, literature, history and moʻolelo, sciences, art and more are shared with one another. 

How do I sign up for Puʻuhuluhulu University? No sign-up is required. You can drop in on classes at any time when they are running. Classes generally run on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

What is the schedule for the University? The schedule for every week varies, but you can check the Puʻuhonua o Puʻuhuluhulu Facebook and Instagram for updates. 

Who do I contact for other questions about Puʻuhuluhulu University?  For inquiries, please contact Presley Ah Mook Sang Kealaanuhea. You can reach her via text at (808) 223-5882. If you want to teach, please fill out this form on our website. 

TRANSPORTATION

If I donʻt have a car, how does transportation work?  A car is recommended, but if you donʻt have access to one, you can check the Kanaka Uber Facebook page for rides. 

What is the shuttle schedule? The shuttle schedule changes frequently. Please check with the information tent for weekly updates. 

PARKING/ROAD ACCESS

Where can I park if I want to join the efforts at the Pu’uhonua o Pu’uhuluhulu or Mauna Kea Access Road? You can part behind the barricades along the roads. Do not park on the shoulders or block the road in any way.  
Is Mauna Kea Access Road open? No, it is currently closed. 

VISITING/STAYING ON THE MAUNA

How should I dress? Itʻs best to wear layers because of the ever-changing weather. We highly recommend warm clothing such as jackets, sweaters, sweatpants, waterproof clothing, scarves, boots, warm socks, long pants, beanies, etc. with lighter clothing underneath, if it gets too hot. 

What is the weather like on the Mauna? The weather on the Mauna ranges day to day. It can be hot during the day, but below thirty degrees at night. Sunscreen, chapstick, and hats are highly recommended while in the sun. Because of the altitude, the sun can be more harsh on your skin, so please exercise extreme caution. 

Is there electricity on the Mauna? There are no public charging areas, but you are welcome to bring your own generator and extension cords.

What should I bring to the Mauna for personal needs? If you decide to sleep on the Mauna, please bring the following: 

  • Warm clothing (The temperature can drop below 30 degrees at night) 

    • A good jacket and/or coat (Preferably one thatʻs waterproof) 

    • Multiple layers of clothing

    • Thick socks

    • Boots/shoes

    • A beanie 

    • Gloves/mittens

    • A scarf 

    • Long pants

  • Gear to protect you from the sun 

    • A wide-brimmed hat

    • Sunblock (Preferably with zinc or titanium dioxide) 

    • Lip balm with sunscreen  

    • Sunglasses 

  • Basic hygiene needs 

  • Food 

  • Utensils, plates, cups (Mess kit preferred to reduce waste) 

  • Water

  • Water bottles (Reusable preferred to reduce waste)

  • A portable stove 

  • A cooler with ice 

  • A heater (if you plan on staying for a long period of time 

  • Your own forms of electricity 

    • A generator 

    • A portable phone charger and/or regular phone charger

    • Extension cords 

  • Camping gear 

    • Tent, tarps, cordage, etc.

    • Bedding (sleeping bags, inflatable mattresses, cots, multiple thick blankets, pillows, etc.) 

    • Foldable chairs 

    • Flashlights and lanterns 

Can I eat the food offered in the kitchen? If you are staying for less than two days, please bring your own food and mess kit. The food we serve is reserved for our crew and kiaʻi. 

Can I hike the Puʻu Huluhulu trail?  Yes, but only during the tours given by Kānaka Rangers. These guided tours are offered Monday-Tuesday and Thursday-Sunday at 10:00am and 3:00pm.

TAKING PHOTOS AND VIDEOS 

What are the rules for photography and video? 

Please note that these rules apply to both professional and personal use of cameras and phones.

    • No photos or videos can be taken in the Pu‘uhonua unless you are with the official Puʻuhuluhulu media team. 

    • During ceremonies on the Mauna Kea Access Road, no photos or videos are allowed during prayers or chants.  Ho‘okupu and hula are okay to record, but please do not livestream. 

    • Absolutely no entering the kūpuna tent.

    • Stay on the outsides of the white lines on both sides of Mauna Kea Access Road at all times.

    • No crossing the street (Mauna Kea Access Road during the entire ceremony. If you need to cross the street, go around the bamboo markers at the start of the road.  

    • Photos can be taken on scheduled hikes through the Pu’uhuluhulu Native Tree Sanctuary. You may not go on this hike without a guide. 

If you are with a media organization, have an interview request, or have any other questions/concerns regarding media, please fill out this media request form on our website.