The name "Maui Goose" - widely adored by customers worldwide - is a great example of the spirit of this unique company. The name is the result of sheer inspiration! One night, Verna dreamed of a large nene goose flying strongly, circling thru the clouds above her farm, towing a little wooden cart brimming with the day's bountiful harvest. Verna instantly traded her title of "CEO" for "COG" - Chief Operating Goose. Maui Goose was born!

Closely associated with the Island of Maui, the nene goose (Nesochen Sandwicensis or Branta sandwicensis) was named the official State Bird of Hawaii on May 7, 1957, replacing the Elepaio.

This lovely, endangered goose is considered a native species, thought to be the eco-specialized descendant of Canada Geese who many, many years ago, came for a visit, and never left! (this happens a lot in Hawaii, not just with geese. :)

Nene are not migratory, but are strong fliers, with cute, less-webbed feet specially adapted for the rough and rugged terrain they live on.

They can be seen in several State Parks including Haleakala on Maui, Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii, and at the Kalalau Overlook on Kauai. Nene can be quite friendly fellows (compared to an ordinary garden goose, which can be rather irritable). Should you ever be lucky enough to see one in person, remember the nene should never be fed or touched (tempting as it is!). Because they are uniquely suited to eating the native flora, any hand fed foods can make them sick, as can germs from our well-meaning hands.

For more facts about Nene and their habitats, here are a few helpful web pages: