There’s an old saying: Kaulana ʻo Nā Wai ʻEhā, meaning “Famous are the Four Great Waters of Nā Wai ʻEhā.”
This storied region of Maui is shaped by the four waters of Waikapū, Wailuku, Waiehu, and Waiheʻe.
For us, Nā Wai ʻEhā has always been home.
Brad and I grew up in the same neighborhood in Wailuku, just a few streets apart, though we didn’t know it then. I spent my childhood swimming in the Wailuku River behind my uncle’s house in ʻĪao Valley. Meanwhile, Brad was just upstream, splashing in the same river at his best friend’s house.
Years later, we’d meet, fall in love, and build a life and farm together here in Waiehu.
Polipoli Farms is our way of caring for the ʻāina and wai that raised us. It’s how we love on the places that gave us so much joy as kids.
Heck, if you’ve spent any amount of time in Nā Wai ʻEhā, you’re probably smitten by this place.
But Nā Wai ʻEhā has been special to our people for far longer than our story.
For centuries, these waters fed thriving loʻi kalo systems, supported native species, and anchored one of the most abundant food systems in all of Hawaiʻi. Today, they continue to feed the land, nourish our community, and inspire everything we do.
Here are 4 reasons we’ll never stop loving and protecting this place:
1. Largest Loʻi Kalo System in Hawaiʻi
In 1848, Nā Wai ʻEhā held over 3,000 acres of loʻi kalo, making it the most extensive taro-growing area in the islands. Hawaiian agriculture was thriving here long before modern systems existed.
2. It’s Our Lifeline
Nā Wai ʻEhā contains Maui’s largest groundwater aquifer, providing over 70% of our island’s drinking water. Farming here means stewarding one of the most vital water sources in Hawaiʻi.
3. Home to Native Aquatic Life
The waters here host species like ʻoʻopu (goby), ʻōpae (shrimp), and hīhīwai (snails) — all of which need free-flowing water from mountain to sea to survive. These aren't just streams—they’re ecosystems.
4. Center of Ancient Hawaiian Life
Nā Wai ʻEhā is the historic heart of Maui and was once the island’s political and spiritual center. From sacred heiau to legendary battles and ancestral stories, this place is rich with mana.
* The following facts are drawn from the efforts and research of Hui o Nā Wai ʻEhā. To learn more about the history, moʻolelo, and protection of these waters, we encourage you to visit their website and support their work.
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