Maui Now ‘Ohana: Cut Down Your Own Maui Christmas Tree

Photo courtesy of Matt Wordeman, President of Friends of Haleakalā.

Each year, Friends of Haleakala, Haleakala National Park and the Haleakala Ranch partner up to provide Christmas trees to the community while simultaneously helping to preserve native species on Haleakala.

It’s a great family activity and one that could become a Christmas tradition. The annual Pu’unianiau alien-pine pull is set for December 12 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

This event helps control the spread of these alien pines by cutting or pulling trees on Pu’unianiau. The invasive pines are located just outside the park entrance on Haleakala Ranch property, but could spread easily across the park boundary and become destructive to native forests and species.

The Friends of Haleakala organization asks you to wear closed-toe shoes, bring rain gear and sun protection, water, gloves and a handsaw. (If you don’t have your own saw, there will be some that you can borrow, along with gloves.) No power tools are allowed. Arrive anytime between 9 and noon at the pullout about a quarter mile before the park entry gate.

If you plan to bring a group, such as a scout troop or class, please contact matt@fhnp.org ahead of time.

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Established in 1968, Kula Botanical Garden is one of the largest growers of Christmas trees in the state of Hawaii. Each year, Helen and Warren McCord plant, prune, and harvest a new crop of fragrant Monterey Pine Christmas Trees. The garden is an entirely family owned and operated business. 

Trees are available in sizes ranging from 3 feet to 18 feet high. Also available are holiday wreaths, centerpieces and cut-greens. Fire-retardant and Artificial Coloring, which is recommended for outdoor displays, is available at an additional cost.