From Maui With Mana: The Story Behind Taha
In August 2023, tragedy struck Maui when wildfires swept through Lahaina, leaving behind devastation, grief, and uncertainty. Nearly 100 lives were lost. Hundreds of businesses and homes were destroyed. One of those businesses was Haleakava, a beloved kava bar on Front Street that served as a cultural hub for the local Polynesian community and anyone seeking a calming, communal beverage.
In the wake of that destruction, something unexpected was born.
A Partnership Forged in Recovery
After the fires, many of us, like so many others on the island, were left wondering how to rebuild, not just our businesses but our sense of purpose. That’s when the founders of Haleakava and the brewers at Pauwela Beverage Company first came together.
We shared a vision: to take the healing tradition of kava and make it more accessible. To honor its cultural roots while introducing it to a broader audience in a modern, approachable form. We started brainstorming a ready-to-drink kava beverage. Something delicious, portable, and true to its roots.
Brewing Taha Kava
Over the next seven months, we worked side by side. We experimented with fresh roots and extractions, dialed in formulations, tested carbonation levels and flavor balance, and made sure the effects stayed true to the spirit of the kava circle.
Eventually, we landed on our signature formula: 800mg of premium Noble Tongan kava per can, infused with tropical fruits that reflect the islands where this story began. We launched with three flavors:
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Lilikoi (Passion Fruit) – bright and tangy with a smooth floral finish
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Pineapple – juicy, sweet, and unmistakably Hawaiian
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Dragon Fruit – bold, vibrant, and beautifully balanced
We named it Taha, a word chosen by our Polynesian partners that represents unity and direction—and it quickly became more than just a drink. It became a symbol of resilience and collaboration.
The Launch and the Movement
We released the first batch at Haleakava’s temporary location and watched as customers responded with excitement. Not just to the taste, but to the calming effects. The ritual. The story.
From there, we began canning larger batches, placing Taha in local stores, then regional chains, and now expanding to the mainland U.S. With every new shelf placement, we’re proud to carry with us the mana of where it all began: on the North Shore of Maui, in a time of crisis, with a mission of healing and togetherness.
Why Taha?
Taha isn’t just a drink. It’s a bridge between tradition and innovation. It’s a nod to the kava roots passed down through generations. And it’s a toast to what’s possible when communities come together to rebuild something better.
Whether you’re new to kava or part of the culture that shaped it, we hope you’ll find something special in every can of Taha.
From Maui with mana.