Hawaiian canoes give ʻŌiwi peoples the ability to travel across great expanses and to access offshore relations and resources. The preservation and continued practice of Hawaiian canoe construction is essential to protecting ʻŌiwi values, culture, way of life, and ola (health and wellbeing).

The Hawaiian peʻa (sail), is made from lauhala, leaves of the hala tree woven into 18 inch panels (1 inch overlapping on each side) sewn together with cordage made from hau and/or niu ​trees.

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Shown here is Kamoanihalaikeaniokailiokekai, the lauhala sail that Gina wove in 2024-2025.