2017 Map of Kukuihaele

About this map

Waipio Valley dominates the northwestern coastal landscape, where steep terrain meets the Pacific Ocean at Waipio Bay. This modern survey illustrates the complex water management systems of the Hamakua Coast, including the Upper Hamakua Ditch and Lower Hamakua Ditch, which historically supported agricultural irrigation across the island. The settlement of Kukuihaele sits near the valley's rim, while residential developments like Kawela Loa and several reservoirs, such as Lalakea Reservoir and Pyukapu Reservoir, are scattered across the rising elevations. Local history and genealogy researchers can locate family-named landmarks and peaks including Puu Lala and Puu Ohia, as well as the coastal Lalakea Fishpond. A dense network of gulches, such as Waikoehoe Gulch and Malanahoe Gulch, carves through the landscape, defining the drainage patterns toward the sea.