7-Eleven Hau’ula Mural
7-Eleven Hawaii’s First Mural
“On Saturday, August 26 2023, 7-Eleven Hawaii proudly unveiled its first-ever mural, a project that not only added aesthetic value but also strengthened the sense of community pride. The mural, a collaborative effort led by local artist Jack Soren and his team, aimed to enhance the natural beauty of Hauula while paying homage to its rich culture and history.” 7-Eleven Hawaii
Meaning Behind the Mural
Kamapua’a and Pele
It is told that Kamapua’a is from the “northern coast of Oahu”. My Kupuna taught me that Kamapua’a comes from Hau’ula, where he caused mischief along the Ko’olaus. His relationship with Pele was “fiery” and complicated.
A back and forth passionate love which caused battles of fire and rain, teasing, bickering, and arguing, similar to what we sometimes go through in our relationships.
The mural shows how Pele’s presence looms over Kamapua’a as a reminder of a past relationship where the tender feelings are still present even after their separation.
More about Kamapua’a and Pele’s story found here
Ulukau.org - “Kamapua’a and Pele”
National Parks Service - “Kamapua’a
Book: “Pele, Goddess of Hawai`i’s Volcanoes” - Herb Kawainui Kane
Three coconut tree’s
Located off of Kamehameha Highway across from Kukuna road… Three iconic coconut trees serve as a distinct landmark in Hau’ula Town. A community member told me a story about “three sisters who planted these coconut trees, each representing one of the sisters. The trees survived the powerful winds of a hurricane that hit Oahu. Now they stand as a symbol of hope and strength.
Hau’ula - “red hau”
A Red (ula`ula) flower from the Hau tree.
Makuakaumana and the big fish
Legend tells of Makuakaumana who came from Kahiki and was a steward over Maunawila Heiau in Hau’ula. One day a whale or “big fish” washed on shore and the locals were jumping into the ocean off its back. Makuakaumana went to jump and the fish swallowed him whole and took him back to Kahiki.
Pahumoa BeACH or Pounders Beach
The area between the bluff called Kehuku'una Point south to the rocky outcrop called Pali Kilo I'a. Before getting the name Pounder’s Beach, it was called Pahumoa after a skilled fisherman named Pahumoa Kamakeeaina.
A popular shore break wave where locals enjoy surfing, bodyboarding, and body surfing.