Our Story
CHIARA LA PIANA
CEO LAHAINA TAXI
THE FATHER OF LAHAINA TAXI
The family business began decades ago with Bienvenido Gazmen, a man whose warm smile and hard-working hands became well-known in Lahaina. He built his life on Maui with dedication, kindness, and a deep love for the community. Over time, his values, service, and perseverance became the heart of our family and the foundation for Lahaina Taxi.
CARRYING THE LEGACY FORWARD
Sylvia Gazmen inherited her father’s determination and his care for people. She works tirelessly to provide for the family, and when she stepped into the taxi business, it was about connecting with people, sharing stories, and helping both locals and visitors feel at home on our island.
THE LEGACY CONTINUES...
Chiara La Piana is the next generation of the family to lead Lahaina Taxi. She carries not only her grandfather’s and mother’s work ethic and resilience, but also their passion for serving people with care and respect. The memory of those mornings in the back seat, watching her grandpa work with quiet dignity, stays with her.
While she is also a musician, composer, and educator, Lahaina Taxi is part of who she is, it’s her roots, her family’s heart. She is committed to carrying this business forward, blending tradition with innovation, and making sure it continues to serve both our local community and visitors for years to come.
August 8, 2023 – The Day Everything Changed
On August 8, 2023, the Lahaina fire swept through the town, leaving devastation in its path. Gazmen's home was lost. The family had to evacuate quickly, with little more than the clothes they were wearing. In the chaos, they also lost two beloved members of the family, Bunny, Bonbon, and a cat, Bello.
The weeks and months that followed were filled with grief, displacement, and uncertainty. Gazmen's ohana moved from place to place, each step trying to find stability. Sylvia's health suffered, and she was hospitalized due to stress, but even in the hardest moments, they held onto each other.
Chiara :
"Today, I am living in a long-term home, thanks to my dearest friends, while rebuilding our lives and our business. My mother is back on her land. We are running Lahaina Taxi with a renewed sense of purpose. We’ve rebuilt our website, created new services like airport pickups and easy tours, and are working to bring visitors closer to the beauty and culture of Maui."
