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.

Aloha, my name is Zetta Freitas and I am 12 years old. I have been going to Waipio since I was very little. Waipio is important to me because it is the place that I go with my family and friends to surf and enjoy the ocean. Waipio is a place that is free and natural. When I am there I feel relaxed. My dad taught me how to surf in Waipio and it is where I have gotten lots of my confidence out in the water. I also got my first barrel there and I will always remember that moment and it is very special to me. I miss going surfing down in the valley and hope that it will open up soon.

I have been going there since birth. It is my favorite place on the island and holds many special memories. I learned to swim there; my recently deceased grandpa would always take us. The waves were scary, but they taught me how to be in the water, and it was extremely freeing. I also do hula, and being able to chant to the valley, to the land, into the silence is a greatly treasured experience. I wish that one day my children can have these same experiences.