MISSION: Native Hawaiians possessed a deep knowledge of their environment, utilizing observations, or kilo, to monitor natural cycles essential for survival. Lawai’a (fishermen) tracked tides, weather, seasonal changes, animal behavior, and water clarity and temperature. Mahi’ai (farmers) focused on weather, seasonal changes, animal and plant behavior, soil quality, and water availability. Both groups also depended on the moon. Lawai’a used the moon’s phases to understand ocean currents and fish migration, noting its impact on tides and spawning cycles. Mahi’ai observed the moon’s phases, as certain phases were believed to be more favorable for planting, cultivating, and harvesting.
Lawai’a: Which phase of the moon can you expect to see tonight? Is it a good night for fishing? What days this month might be a good time to go fishing? Use the interactive calendar and see page 35 of the PDF calendar for info about the lunar month. What other things can you kilo today that might help lawai’a?
Mahi’ai: Which phase of the moon can you expect to see tonight? Use the interactive calendar and see page 35 of the PDF calendar for info about the lunar month. What crops might you be able to plant or cultivate this month? What other things can you kilo today that might help make decisions about crops?
Interactive Moon Phase Calendar
You can use the interactive calendar below to view the night’s moon, as well as optimal fishing and farming conditions.