Punachicks Farm blends tradition and sustainability in Hawaii's Puna District

Punachicks Farm in Kurtistown has been a local food staple since 2013. Founded by Emily Taaroa, the farm raises chickens, cows, geese, and turkeys while supporting sustainable agriculture in Hawaii's Puna District. Their retail store and food truck feature products made with mostly homegrown ingredients, reflecting the region's long tradition of resilient farming. The farm began when Emily Taaroa leased the land in 2013 before later purchasing it. Punachicks specialises in Cornish Cross chickens, which grow to market size in just five to seven weeks. Alongside poultry, they raise dairy cows, geese, and seasonal turkeys, including broad breasted poults sold at Thanksgiving for $7.75 per pound.

Their retail store stocks a variety of goods, from chicken bacon and liver to local produce, baked items, jams, vinegars, and Puna coffee. The food truck offers daily specials, with at least 80% of ingredients sourced from the farm or nearby producers. Taaroa even shares a favourite recipe for roast chicken, encouraging home cooking with their products.

Punachicks operates on Wednesdays and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. The farm also plays a role in Puna's broader agricultural revival, which began after the 1946 Hilo tsunami destroyed coastal farms. Over decades, the area shifted to diversified crops like macadamia nuts, coffee, and avocados, with USDA support. Today, Punachicks contributes to this legacy by promoting regenerative farming, food sovereignty, and local markets. The farm's commitment to sustainability and community ties into Puna's history of adapting to challenges, from tsunamis to volcanic eruptions. Visitors can explore their offerings in person or online at www.punachicksfarm.com. Their work continues to strengthen Hawaii's push for self-sufficiency and organic farming.