West Maui is not just a stunning vacation destination; it’s also home to Pu'u Kukui, the peak of Mauna Kahālāwai and a rare sanctuary sprawling nearly 10,000 acres. Translating to "hill of enlightenment," it is revered as one of the rainiest places on Earth, second only to Kauai's Waiʻaleʻale. 

A secluded destination few will ever experience, The Pu’u Kukui Preserve stretches from 480 feet at Honokohau Stream to the summit at 5,788 feet and is one of Hawaii’s largest private nature preserves. 

Puʻu Kukui plays a vital role beyond just a sanctuary for wildlife. It serves as the primary catchment area for West Maui. The preserve’s rainforests, shrublands, and bogs absorb rainfall—nearly 400 inches annually—like a sponge, replenishing, filtering and slowly releasing it into streams and aquifers that supply water to communities from northern most Kapalua and Kahakuloa, all the way south to

Wailea and Makena. Most of the island’s agriculture, irrigation, and over 70% of drinking water come from this system. The natural process helps prevent soil erosion, ensuring that water is absorbed into the earth rather than rushing off to the sea. 

Historically, Pu’u Kukui was considered a sacred area and access was restricted to only certain individuals like kahuna for specific purposes. Today, Pu'u Kukui is a haven for Hawaiian biodiversity, providing critical habitat for native birds, flora and fauna. It is home to 20% of Hawaii's native plant species, some of which, like the Maui violet, are found nowhere else in the world. Native ʻōhi‘a trees, stunted by harsh environmental conditions, still produce full-sized blossoms among the brush.

 These tiny trees are surrounded by vibrant lichens, mosses, and shrubs, forming a brilliant tapestry of flora that thrives only here. The preserve is also a refuge for endangered species such as the Hawaiian hoary bat and rare birds like the ‘amakahi and ‘apapane.

The preservation of Puʻu Kukui is a testament to the dedication of local organizations like Aloha Puʻu Kukui and the Living Pono Project, which embody the spirit of malama ‘aina—caring for the land. These groups practice sustainable and ecological stewardship, crucial for maintaining the natural beauty and ecological health of Maui.

The Living Pono Project, started to help Kānaka Maoli and islanders thrive while retaining their cultural identity, plays a pivotal role in the conservation of Puʻu Kukui. Historically, the area received up to 400 inches of rain annually, but recent years have seen a significant decline to just over 200 inches due to climate change impacts. In response, the Living Pono Project has secured over $650,000 this year alone to bolster the watershed's preservation efforts. A substantial portion of these funds, including a $500,000 donation from Kapalua Golf, is allocated for conservation efforts such as personnel, equipment, and supplies.

Photo: Argyroxiphium Grayanum by Karl Magnacca

If you’d like to get involved, help make a direct environmental impact at the upcoming Arbor Day event. Aloha Pu’u Kukui is inviting the community to help plant 2,400 trees at Honolua Bay on Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 9 AM to 2 PM. Volunteers will plant 1,200 Koa and 1,200 'A'ali'i trees, enriching Maui's biodiversity and natural landscapes.

Whether you are a resident or a visitor, supporting local preservation efforts can make a significant difference. Donating, volunteering and supporting projects like the Puʻu Kukui Watershed Preserve ensures that these habitats, and the water they provide, continue to thrive. Each step taken towards conservation reinforces the health of this ecosystem, securing it for future generations to enjoy.

For more details on how you can contribute to the preservation efforts or to learn more about the Puʻu Kukui Watershed Preserve, please visit www.puukukui.org. To support or get involved with the Living Pono Project, visit www.livingponoproject.org.

Informational Video by Aloha Pu'ukui: Puʻu Kukui | The Hill of Enlightenment