Pu‘uhona Homestead Welcomes Native Hawaiian Families in Waikapū

In the heart of Waikapū, a significant milestone unfolded as the Pu‘uhona Homestead community celebrated the blessing of over 160 new homes.

This event marked a pivotal moment for Native Hawaiian families, many of whom have awaited this opportunity for decades.

The Pu‘uhona Homestead spans nearly 47 acres, offering a blend of 137 turnkey homes and 24 improved vacant lots.

These residences, ranging from two to five bedrooms, are designed to accommodate the diverse needs of the community.

Acting Governor Sylvia Luke addressed the gathering, emphasizing the project's significance.

She highlighted that Pu‘uhona is the first subdivision realized through the $600 million allocated by the legislature to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL).

Luke remarked, “For many of you, I see in your faces the pain and joy of being right here, being able to fulfill the mandate placed on us by Prince Kūhiō and the mandate that the state has in ensuring that more homesteaders, more Native Hawaiians, get placed on the land.”

DHHL Director Kali Watson extended heartfelt wishes to the new residents.

He expressed, “To the 161 families of phases 1 and 2, may your homes be filled with aloha, your yards with keiki laughter, and your tables with abundance.

May Pu‘uhona be a place for healing, resilience, and strength for all of you.”

The journey to this day began with the project's groundbreaking two years prior.

Since then, the development has progressed steadily, culminating in this momentous occasion.

Pu‘uhona is just the beginning.

DHHL has outlined plans for six additional homestead projects on Maui, aiming to provide over 1,600 units in the coming years.

These initiatives reflect a concerted effort to address the longstanding waitlist and fulfill the promises of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act.

For many families, the blessing ceremony was more than a formal event; it was the realization of a dream.

Mark Dean Kalalau, who had been on the waiting list for 38 years, shared his sentiments: “I didn’t think this was going to happen in our lifetime.”

His wife, Lisa, added, “We’ve been on the list a long time.

It’s really a blessing.”

The Pu‘uhona Homestead stands as a testament to the resilience and perseverance of the Native Hawaiian community.

As families settle into their new homes, the spirit of aloha and the legacy of Prince Kūhiō's vision continue to thrive in Waikapū.