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.

I am of Hawaiian ethnicity and raised in Waimea, and Waipi‘o has been one of many childhood playgrounds. Growing up in Hawaii Waipi‘o…It’s a local spot We would do all of the activities surfing, hiking, fishing etc. I believe ocean access should never be denied to local Hawaiian families anywhere in the state of Hawaii. The ocean is a key element to sustaining an islander’s lively hood. Whether it’s for play, work, food gathering etc. If authorities continue to restrict access to this life source we will forget who we are. And Hawaii will not be Hawaii anymore. If we need to help to rebuild roads, monitor fishing grounds, come together as a community to better restore overused areas, to make them sustainable resources…then let’s do it. Don’t just red tape it.

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.