Niu November Winners and Photos
Mahalo nui to everyone that participated in our inaugural Niu November!
As we wrap up our first-ever Niu November, we want to extend a heartfelt mahalo to everyone who participated and made it such a meaningful celebration of Hawaiʻi’s cherished coconut tree.
From the amazing photos submitted to our It’s Niu or Never Photo Contest to those that followed along, shared resources, and learned with us online, your enthusiasm and aloha for niu have truly inspired us. Together, we’ve highlighted niu’s cultural, environmental, and community importance while raising awareness about the threats like the coconut rhinoceros beetle. If you missed out, you can catch up on our website here under “Latest Invasive Species Updates” or by searching #NiuNovember on Instagram.
To everyone who shared your manaʻo, joined in the conversation, and celebrated the beauty of niu with us, mahalo for making our inaugural campaign a success. Your support helps ensure a brighter future for niu, our ʻāina, and the generations to come.
A special shoutout goes to our amazing partners and friends who have joined us for Niu November, provided resources, and share our commitment to protecting niu and mālama ʻāina: Niu Now, Kaulunani Urban & Community Forestry Program, Big Island Invasive Species Committee, Maui Farmer Network, Papa Ola Lōkahi, Niu Soft Serve, artists Ewa Mosc and Lance Genson Mahi La Pierre, and many others who share our commitment to protecting niu and mālama ʻāina.
Cherished Niu
1st Place: Keili Mcevilly
“The ultimate hydration and snack, the first voyager! Niu is my favorite companion when I go holo holo on the waʻa.”
2nd Place: Dallas Nagata White & Pua Pinto
“Photo of a solitary niu, taken at Sand Island in 2014.”
“Establishing an ono for niu from hanabuddah babies days. If they grow to love it they will grow to protect it ensuring it continues to thrive. Cherished niu.”
Niu Creations
1st Place: Jesika Hernandez
“4 leaf pā lau niu (coconut leaf plate/platter). I volunteered with Niu Now at the art event at Thomas Square earlier this year and learned how to make this. I also had the privilege to teach others.”
2nd Place: Puanani Leal
“Weekly harvest of niu wai, niu milk and niu cream!”
Niu Messages
1st Place: John Thomas
“The image is representing the parts of the kumu niu. The mid ribs, leaf stem, fruits, leaves.”
2nd Place: Eric Blanco
“Niu at Sunset on the Beach 🏝 Important to protect our niu as they provide shade during the day and also provide water when we're thirsty and food when we're hungry. #IslandResource”
All Submissions
