Our Mission: Mauka to Makai
From the mountains to the sea, Makaifest celebrates the vital ecological and cultural connections that sustain our island. Through the traditional Hawaiian moku system, we bring together communities across Oahu to share knowledge, culture, and responsibility for our shared environment.
Mauka to Makai: Our Guiding Principle
In Hawaiian tradition, Mauka to Makai—from mountain to sea—represents the interconnected flow of resources, responsibility, and relationship across our island ecosystem. Water flows from the mountains to nourish the valleys, then carries nutrients to feed the ocean.
This ancient understanding guides our modern mission: connecting urban and rural communities, sharing traditional knowledge with contemporary practices, and ensuring that every part of our island thrives together.
Mauka to Makai
Connected ecosystems, shared responsibility
The Six Moku of Oahu
Koolauloa
The windward northeastern district, known for its lush landscapes and rural communities.
Traditional Characteristics:
- •Rural farming communities
- •Windward coastal areas
- •Traditional taro farming
Modern Connection:
Supplies fresh produce to island restaurants and markets
Koolaupoko
The windward southeastern district, home to Kaneohe and Kailua.
Traditional Characteristics:
- •Mixed urban-rural areas
- •Beautiful beaches
- •Residential communities
Modern Connection:
Tourism and residential hub with strong local businesses
Kona
The urban core of Oahu, containing the city and main business district.
Traditional Characteristics:
- •Dense urban population
- •Commercial center
- •Cultural institutions
Modern Connection:
Economic engine supporting island-wide commerce and services
Ewa
The leeward southern district, experiencing rapid growth and development.
Traditional Characteristics:
- •Growing suburban areas
- •Industrial development
- •Agricultural heritage
Modern Connection:
Expanding residential communities with agricultural roots
Waianae
The leeward western district, maintaining strong Hawaiian cultural traditions.
Traditional Characteristics:
- •Native Hawaiian communities
- •Cultural preservation
- •Subsistence practices
Modern Connection:
Cultural hub preserving traditional Hawaiian lifestyles
Wailua
The central district, bridging all other moku with its inland location.
Traditional Characteristics:
- •Central plateau
- •Agricultural lands
- •Military presence
Modern Connection:
Agricultural center and transportation hub connecting all districts
How Makaifest Brings Moku Together
Community Showcase
Representatives from each moku share their unique stories and traditions
Product Exchange
Local producers bring goods that represent their moku's specialties
Cultural Bridge
Music and art that reflects the diversity and unity of our island
Shared Learning
Educational workshops about environmental stewardship across all moku
Our Kuleana: Stewardship from Mountain to Sea
We all share kuleana—responsibility—for caring for our island from the highest peaks to the deepest reefs. Makaifest brings together communities from all elevations and ecosystems to learn, share, and act together for our island's future.
🏔️ Mauka (Mountain)
Protecting watersheds, preserving native forests, and maintaining agricultural traditions that feed our communities and filter our water.
🌾 Kula (Plains)
Supporting sustainable farming, connecting urban and rural communities, and maintaining the flow of resources across our island.
🌊 Makai (Ocean)
Protecting coral reefs, reducing ocean pollution, maintaining coastal access, and honoring our relationship with the sea that surrounds us.