ahupuaʻa
An ahupuaʻa is a traditional Hawaiian land division that typically extends from the mountains to the sea. This system was designed to manage resources sustainably, allowing communities to access various environments, including forests, agricultural lands, and coastal areas. Each ahupuaʻa provided the necessary resources for the people living within it, promoting self-sufficiency.
The concept of ahupuaʻa reflects the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the importance of stewardship in Hawaiian culture. Each division was often governed by a chief, known as a mōʻi, who was responsible for the well-being of the land and its inhabitants. This system exemplifies the traditional Hawaiian values of respect for nature and community collaboration.