Kamehameha was born on a stormy night at Kokoiki in Kohala, on the island of Hawaiʻi.  Exactly when he was born is not known. It may have been in November, for November is the month of rain, thunder and lightning. A bright star with a long tail appeared during Kamehamehaʻs birth...Kamehamehaʻs mother was the young chiefess Keku'iapoiwa.  As soon as Kamehameha was born, Keku'iapoiwa wrapped him in kapa and placed him gently in the arms of Nae'ole, a chief of Kohala whom she trusted.  "Take my child to my cousin Kaha'ōpulani! Go quickly!"

Kaha'ōpulani was waiting for him in a cave.  When Nae'ole arrived she took the baby and laid him on a mat.  She covered the child with light fibers of olonā.  Then she picked up her own baby girl and rocked her in her arms.  The little boy was sleeping soundly.

Kahaʻōpūlani was known for her nurturing nature and fostering the growth of the young Kamehameha; qualities that are inherent in a Kamehameha student’s dorming experience.