Hokule'a (Arcturus): The Hokule'a was a key star for locating the Hawaiian Islands. On the north-south axis, it is directly overhead at the latitude of the Big Island. Hokule'a translates as "Clear Star".

Hokupa'a (Polaris): This star appeared in the northern sky once the voyagers had sailed north of the equator, and was then used to determine direction. Hokupa'a is located almost due north, and unlike other stars, does not change it's position no matter the longitude. Hokupa'a means "Fixed Star."

Na Hiku (Big Dipper): Na Hiku is easy to find in the northern sky, and is an aid in finding other stars. The arc in Ha Niku curves to Hokule'a, and at its opposite end, the "pointers" lead to Hokupa'a. Na Hiku means "The Seven".

Na Mahoe: The twins. Castor and Pollux are the Western names. Coincidentally, they are the main stars in Gemini.

Makali'i (The Pleiades): The rising of this star cluster determined the timing of a voyage. Makali'i means "Little Eyes".

Na Kao (Orion's Belt): Means "The Darts."

A'a (Sirius): The brightest star in the sky, in Hawaiian A'a means "Bright."

Hawaiki: Is the legendary name for Hawai'i before it was settled.

Hokule'a: Is the name of a star (Arcturus) that was important in finding the Hawaiian Islands. It is also the name of a canoe that was used to re-enact voyages between Hawai'i and Tahiti in modern times, using only the ancient ways of navigation.

For more information, including modern voyages using only traditional methods, see the Polynesian Voyaging Society.