PCC updates its plans for Iosepa and its Hawaiian sailing canoes
Tagaloataoa Delsa Moe, PCC VP of Cultural Presentations, shared the following update on Iosepa as the summer 2026 sailing season approaches, and related announcements.
Tagaloataoa Delsa Moe, PCC VP of Cultural Presentations, shared the following update on Iosepa as the summer 2026 sailing season approaches, and related announcements.
Kalilimoku Sola August Hunt and Tuputausi May Asayo Hirata Hunt, Polynesian Cultural Center alumni, have been called to serve as president and matron of the Pago Pago American Samoa Temple. Their journey—from PCC service to Church and civic leadership—reflects a lifetime of faith, cultural pride, and devotion to helping others experience the blessings of the temple.
According to Aloha State Daily online news, Mark Ellis, PCC Director for Voyaging Experiences centered on the 57-foot waʻa kaulua (twin-hulled voyaging canoe) Iosepa thatʻs permanently berthed at the Polynesian Cultural Centerʻs Hawaiian Village, is also participating as the Polynesian Voyaging Societyʻs education director in the annual Kualoa/Hakipu‘u Canoe Festival on March 7, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the far makai end of Kualoa Regional Park.
Equally gifted at a piano and computer keyboard, Kwun Fung “Ivan” Lee blends faith, intellect, and innovation in remarkable ways. A BYU–Hawaii science and mathematics major, he balances research at the PCC with a passion for music. Guided by a patriarchal blessing, Ivan chose education over comfort—building systems that serve others while pursuing purpose beyond success.
Laie Inn manager Craig Huish played a key role in promoting the Polynesian Cultural Center for 12 years.
The Polynesian Football Hall of Fame inducts its Class of 2026 at the Polynesian Cultural Center.
From the Ensign Magazine (July 1994): Alton Wade, who was then president of BYU–Hawaii, and had previously served as superintendent at the former Church College of New Zealand and then oversaw hiring of Church Educational System faculty and staff for South Pacific schools, explained, explained President David O. McKayʻs foretelling that “millions” would visit Laie.
These short stories come straight from the voice of our beloved Governor, Jimmy Mapu. With humor, heart, and a whole lot of personality, Jimmy shares moments that will make you laugh, reflect, and feel the spirit of the Polynesian Cultural Center. Each story is a small glimpse into life at the Center—told the way only the Governor can tell it.
These short stories come straight from the voice of our beloved Governor, Jimmy Mapu. With humor, heart, and a whole lot of personality, Jimmy shares moments that will make you laugh, reflect, and feel the spirit of the Polynesian Cultural Center. Each story is a small glimpse into life at the Center—told the way only the Governor can tell it.