MĀLAMA I KE KAI ‘O WAIPI‘O

Community. Connection. Stewardship.

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Our mission is to ensure ocean access for Hawaii Island residents to perpetuate traditional forms of wave riding, fishing, gathering, and other shoreline activities that sustain a thriving Waipi‘o Valley.

Days since Emergency Proclamation. 

SIGN THE PETITION
On Feb. 25, 2022 Waipi’o Valley access was cut off to the community under Mayor Mitch Roth’s Emergency Proclamation. Access was allowed for some while denied to others. Sign the petition to show support for community access.
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Visit our News page where you can join our mailing list, link to press articles, and stay informed about community events.
LINK TO SURVEY
If you are a Hawai‘i resident,  have a strong history of connection to Waipi‘o,  and are concerned about being denied access, please link above to submit a testimonial. Itʻs important that the mayor understand the diversity in our community.

TESTIMONIALS

Why is Waipi’o important to you? 

Spencer Williams

Waipi’o is important to me because it is a place for my family and I go to relax, unwind, and enjoy the ocean as a family. Spending time with my family is extremely important to me. Over the last few years, the Hamakua is shrinking with beach access from Hakalau to Kolekole. We, as a family, are grateful for the valley and what it presents and what it provides to us and others. Please bring access to Waipi’o Valley back to residents.

Spencer Williams
Edward Johnston

Waipi’o represents my link to my life’s work– the preservation of Hawaiian ‘Awa. In the early 1980’s my life long friend (who owned a home in the Valley) and I would visit the old Hawaiian community member. Harrison Kanekoa. He shared stories of the historic ‘awa patches in the valley and invited us to get a few nodes. This is largely why we have so many rare Hawaiian ‘awa cultivars available today. I started a 501(c)3 and the rest is history.

Edward Johnston
Malia Sheehan

Waipi’o valley has always been a huge part of my life and overall well being. Since birth, I’ve spent countless hours at the beach, playing in the sand, swimming, surfing, hiking, kayaking and fishing..It’s my home. It’s a place of healing, where I feel like I can wash all my worries away and be spiritually connected. Since the closing of Waipi’o road I feel like a big part of me is missing.

Malia Sheehan