By LOUISE ROCKETT

LAHAINA – A recipient of the prestigious 2007 Kahili Award, Maui Nei Native Expeditions is "Keeping it Hawai'i" in the tradition of the Friends of Moku'ula: Ka Wa Mamua, Ka Wa Mahope – "The future is in the past."

The "Keeping it Hawai'i" program, currently managed by the Hawaii Tourism Authority, has been recognizing individuals, businesses and organizations the past 16 years for commitment to the creative and responsible perpetuation of the Native Hawaiian culture.

In a publication honoring the 2007 awardees, HTA wrote, "Maui Nei Native Expeditions, in partnership with the nonprofit Friends of Moku'ula, has created programs and services that educate people on the significance of areas on the island of Maui, specifically in Lahaina and the areas that border it.

"The goal of both groups is to restore Moku'ula, which is a sacred site that was once home to the high chiefs of Maui. They create educational tours for visitors and residents and provide consulting services to businesses on developing culturally appropriate representations of the Hawaiian culture."

Distinguished in the business category, Maui Nei offers a variety of unique cultural experiences, including guided expeditions to Haleki'i and Pihana Heiau, Iao Valley, Bailey House Museum and Haleakala.

The most popular attraction, however, is "A Walking Tour Through Lahaina's Past."

Community leader, restaurateur and past Friends of Moku'ula (FOM) President Jerry Kunitomo gives the two-hour trek a thumbs-up rating.

"The Maui Nei walking tour is a great thing for Lahaina. I learned so much when I took it. For the locals, it brings historical significance to many things you would otherwise look at every day and not know. Once you take the tour, you will never look at Lahaina the same way again," he commented.

The journey opens with a chant at the sacred Hauola birthing stone near Lahaina Harbor, then travels along the pathways of the past revealing the story of the historic town, beginning over 1,700 years ago with the arrival of the first Polynesians.

Kunitomo attributed the quality of the experience to the guides at the helm of the voyage.

"The kumu that lead the walking tour love Lahaina, and it shows in their presentation," he said.

According to Maui Nei literature, the certified kumu and chanters "complete an extensive training program ensuring the authenticity and accuracy of the information communicated to our clients in all our programs. They are also accomplished cultural practitioners (i.e. La'au Lapa'au, ha'i mo'olelo), educators, professional hula dancers and artists?"

FOM Executive Director Akoni Akana acknowledged the dedication and versatility of the crew at Maui Nei.

"Our kumu include Michael Kalani Salazar, Keoki Sousa, Moses Goods, Wailana Simcock, Germaine Balino, Wainani Kealoha and George Kaimiola, and the Operations and Sales Director is Marvy Gibbs," he said.

"I joined Maui Nei in early 2005. I've known Akoni Akana since we worked together at Kaanapali Beach Hotel in the mid-1990s, and I wanted to support his efforts with the restoration of Moku'ula. My responsibilities include working with all the cruise lines and destination marketing companies which sell our tour, as well as with independent companies, groups, educational organizations and individuals," Gibbs commented.

Gibbs enjoys the challenge of customizing the experience.

"Maui Nei often books unique tours other than our renowned walking tour. One of our unique bookings was participating as one of the stops in a Road Rally for a local destination marketing company. We were positioned at the Hawaiian Hale at Kepaniwai Heritage Park at Iao Valley. The participants had to 'find' us and learn a kahiko hula. Only after the completion of the requirements could they leave and venture on to their next 'stop' toward the completion of the rally," she said.

In all its encounters, the "Keep It Hawai'i" recipient is committed to the kuleana of educating the public.

"Maui Nei strives to restore the integrity of our native people through programs and activities that accentuate Hawaiian values. We proudly share the culture and traditions procured by our ancestors and respectfully educate our guests. After all, we are Hawaiian!" Akana remarked in a HTA press release.

Copyright © 2004 The Lahaina News.

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