Members of the Puakea Foundation learn about wood, wood-working, and the traditional art of canoe making. Below are pictures featuring the wa’a (canoe) projects on the Big Island and at He’eia Park on Oahu, led by Uncle Bobby. Bobby has had the assistance of several students during these multi-year projects.
Building a Koa Canoe with Uncle Bobby
![]() |
Rolling the log into place |
![]() |
Measuring the first cut |
![]() |
Marking the measurements |
![]() |
Long view of the log |
![]() |
Detail of measurements |
![]() |
Hollowing it out |
![]() |
Carving the side |
![]() |
Student volunteer with Uncle Bobby |
![]() |
Canoe Halau |
![]() |
Uncle Bobby |