The Kūkaniloko Birthstones

The Kūkaniloko birthstones sit atop a five-acre site in Wahiawa and hold high cultural significance as the site was once the birthplace of high-ranking children, one of only two designated sites in Hawai’i. 

Kūkaniloko translated means to ‘anchor the cry from within.’ The site of the stones covers roughly ½ an acre and features 180 rounded large rocks called pōhaku. 

Above: Kukaniloko Birthstones, photo credit Hawai’ian Civic Club of Wahiawa

For over seven centuries, ali’i (chiefs) were born The births of 4 chiefs of O‘ahu have been recorded to be at Kūkaniloko – La‘a, Mā‘ilikūkahi, Kalanimanuia and Kākuhihewa. 

“It [the Kūkaniloko birthstone site] was a pu’uhonoa, a place of refuge. So in the old days that was the centre, you know, socioeconomic centre, I guess, of the kingdom of Hawaii,” said Tom Lenchanko, the current Kūkaniloko steward. 

The position of stewarding the property had been passed down generationally to Lenchanko.

Above: Map Prepared by Hawaii Territory Survey 1929

The site was also used as a navigational school, due to its location near the geographical centre of Hawai’i. The pōhaku were also used as calendars, using the sun, moon and other natural phases. 

In 1992, the state of Hawai’i acquired the Kūkaniloko birthstone site and placed it under the jurisdiction of parks, then in 1960, the site was passed to the Hawai’ian Civic Club of Wahiawa. 

The Kūkaniloko birthstone site currently remains closed to the public.