VACATION LIKE A LOCAL
Eddie Aikau was a Hawaiian lifeguard, big wave surfer, and icon that passed away in 1978 when participating in a historic journey from Hawaii to Tahiti by traditional canoe. The Hōkūleʻa encountered a leak in its hull and capsized. To save the crew, Eddie volunteered to paddle on his surfboard to Lanai. The crew was later found by the US Coast Gaurd, but Eddie's body was never found. Each year a big wave surf contest is held to honor Eddie at the historic Waimea Bay. For the contest to be held, the bay has to see a minimum of a 20ft swell, which has lead to only 9 times since its inception in 1985 that it has run. The top athletes in the world are invited to the event and there is a opening ceremony that takes place each and every year before the opening period of the contest. Eddie represents the true spirit of Hawaii in that he gave his life to save others. No matter where you come from, we can all learn from Eddie.
Directed by: Phil Schlieder
Everybody Loves Eddie
Aloha Aina
In this episode, we explore Kaina Makua's journey through Waimea on Kauai, where Native Hawaiians blend tradition and modernity, shaping the world with indigenous values.
A Film by: Sam Potter
Mālama Honua
Mālama Honua is the journey that asks us to define our path forward, challenges us to care for our communities so that they prosper and helps us share the (spirit) of Hawai‘i with others.
Everybody Loves Eddie
Eddie Aikau was a Hawaiian lifeguard, big wave surfer, and icon that passed away in 1978 when participating in a historic journey from Hawaii to Tahiti by traditional canoe.
Directed by: Phil Schlieder
Kapaemahu
Ancient healers from Tahiti brought power to Waikiki's boulders. The untold tale emerges, revealing their spiritual legacy.
A Film by: Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu, Dean Hammer, & Joe Wilson
Habitat Stewardship
Kiai Collier’s name means guardian, and he lives up to that name as a protector of Maui’s natural habitats.
Pili Ka Mo'o
The Fukumitsu ʻOhana, custodians of generational taro farming, fight for ancestral burials amidst urbanization. A clash of traditions and development unfolds.
Film by: Justyn Ah Chong with Malia Akutagawa (Kanaka Maoli)
Hawai'i ʻ78
"Song Across Hawaiʻi"! 100ʻs of youth + 40 artists recorded this timeless classic live @ 29 locations across 4 islands. Unforgettable message.
A Film by: Mana Maoli
Reforestation
Sam Ohu Gon III unites past and future, merging zoology and Hawaiian wisdom for conservation. He mālama native ecosystems through reforestation.
Aquaculture
Noelani Lee dives into seaweed, leading locals and visitors to mālama fishponds. Kupuna council guides invasive species removal. Join and roll up your sleeves!
Kaumakaiwa
Kanaka‘ole: Award-winning force of nature, carrying the legacy of Hawaiian Renaissance. Her voice transcends boundaries, rooted in hula lineage.
Directed by: Bradley Tangonan
Sustainable Farming
Rick Barboza fosters Hawaiian culture, linking visitors/volunteers to land through a lo'i. In He'eia, they care for the land, nurturing mauka to makai.
Pow! Wow!
Experience the past, present and future or the POW! WOW! family through founder Jasper Wong.
Directed by: Santiago Arbelaez
We Are Mauna Kea
Protests erupted on Mauna Kea against the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT), highlighting indigenous rights and environmental concerns.
Directed by: Etienne Aurelius