Get to Know Us

In the heart of Haiku, you'll find Camp Ho'ohana, a place where Peter and Melissa Koeneman share their love for the outdoors. Peter teaches middle school at a wonderful school upcountry, while Melissa works with an online Waldorf handwork company. They're favorite place to be is hiking through the lush gulches with their children, Will and Addie, and their loyal dog, Mali, who might be small but is incredibly brave when it comes to facing boars. They strive to consistently give back to the land by regenerating soil after years of monocropping, planting native trees and plants that benefit the local ecosystem, and using sustainable and regenerative farming and animal husbandry practices.

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Their philosophy is simple: children learn best through hands-on experiences and playing in the wild. At Camp Ho'ohana, they focus on teaching essential wilderness skills and instilling a deep appreciation for nature. With their blend of homesteading and bushcraft values and outdoor education, Peter and Melissa create a nurturing environment where students can learn, explore, and grow.

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