Pua and Son Haka Photo
Pua (father) teaching Kahili (son) the kuʻi, a traditional haʻa movement.

“E kuʻi nā kāne, e naue nā moku, e hoʻi nā kāne”
The men will kuʻi, the islands will shake, the men return!

  • Registration Deadline: Open until all seats are taken (125 max)
  • Event: Haʻa Koa Conference
  • Date: March 26, 2008 (Prince Kuhio Day)
  • Time: 8:30 am to 4:00 pm
  • Location: University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo
    • UCB Conference Room
  • Contact:
    • Pua Ishibashi
    • Co-Chair, Haʻa Koa Conference
    • 691 Ainako Ave.
    • Hilo, Hawaiʻi 96720
  • Phone: (808) 989-4844
  • Email: hpij@aol.com
  • Presented by: The Royal Order of Kamehameha I, Mamala Hoa
  • Sponsored by:
    • Kahua Ola – Student Life Center
    • Hawaiʻi Community College
    • Queen Liliʻuokalani Children’s Center
    • Hale Mua Cultural Group
    • Kahu O Ka Ula Ahi

The Haʻa Koa was established as a direct response to a recognized need within the Hawaiian community for a strong formal kane (manly) protocol that was clearly and uniquely Hawaiian. That is, Hawaiian in language, movement, ʻike (knowledge and understanding), and mana. As such, the Haʻa Koa reflects traditional practices found in the lua (Hawaiian martial art), ʻai haʻa (traditional style of dance), hula (dance/chant), and may include the use of musical instruments such as the ipu and pahu (percussion instruments) as well as mea kaua (war implements). In essence, the Haʻa Koa celebrates the spirit of the koa (warrior) and the virtues of strength, courage, loyalty, and dignity. In application, it may be used to unify and empower a hui, honor an esteemed guest, or challenge an opponent such as in an athletic venue.

A small group of recognized and respected cultural practitioners including olohe lua, kumu hula, navigators, and kupuna have been invited to share their manaʻo on various aspects related to the Haʻa Koa. A portion of the conference will also be dedicated to the teaching and learning of a traditional haʻa (Kuʻi Molokaʻi). Presented by the Royal Order of Kamehameha I, Mamala Hoa, the Conference is free and open to the public.

The Conference will take place on March 26 (Kuhio Day) from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, UCB Conference Room. Seating is limited and registration is required. Note: The Haʻa Koa Conference precedes the first annual Haʻa Koa Hoʻike that will take place at the Kamehameha Festival in Hilo on June 11, 2008 (Kamehameha Day). The Hoʻike will provide groups with a venue to share their respective Haʻa Koa with the Big Island’s community.

Click here to view the Conference Agenda

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE CONFERENCE NOW

For more information on the Haʻa Koa Conference and Hoʻike, please contact Pua Ishibashi at hpij@aol.com.

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