My husband and I live in Paauilo Mauka and work full-time jobs at local schools. We also maintain our family homestead, so do not have a lot of free time. Other than Waipi‘o, there are no nearby areas to safely access the ocean as a family. Surfing for us is exercise, stress relief, and a way to strengthen relationships in the community. Accessing our local shoreline is a cultural and family practice and we feel it is important to share this with our daughter.

It is a place that I feel the most connected to Hawai’i Island. Maunakea, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, & Waipi’o Valley. Those places to me are the hearts of the Island. I am a lifelong surfer & also a trail runner, This closure prohibits me from surfing the waves of Waipio Valley & from running the trail to Waimanu Valley.

I have been going to the valley my entire life in many different ways. Always with wonder, joy, and respect. I am 61 years old. I love to see the families and keiki enjoying themselves like I did when I was younger.