Makali’i’s New Mast Is Up — Help fill our Sails!

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In the summer of 2024, as our canoe Makali‘i made way to join with our Oceania ‘ohana (family) and other voyaging canoes at the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture (FestPAC), an unexpected event reminded us just how much our wa‘a (canoe) continues to teach us. On the way to the festival, her mast broke—a pivotal moment that opened the door for deeper reflection and an opportunity to strengthen our canoe both physically and collectively.

Under the guidance of Pwo navigators Uncle Shorty Bertelmann and Uncle Chadd ‘Onohi Paishon as well as long time crew members Kainalu Bertelmann and Nakoa Prejean, the question became:

How can we lash our traditions to new technologies? How can Makaliʻi be even better for the next generation, the next 30 years?

​​The answer came in the form of renewed collaboration, hard work, and aloha. This new mast, crafted with care from our whānau in Aotearoa and raised into place by our crew and ʻohana on Moku o Hawai’i, represents a new season in Makali‘i’s journey—one that honors her roots while preparing her for the voyages ahead. 

Through all of Makaliʻi’s transitions over the years, our Pueo (mast head) has consistently provided continuity and connections to Papa Mau.  Our Pueo, a longtime symbol of guidance, sits proudly atop her new mast, guiding us resiliently in our growth, and our deep commitment to this legacy. At 30 years young, she’s standing tall—ready for what’s next.

The rigging is up, but the work is far from over. Join us, and help us “kau ka peʻa a holo ka waʻa” (fill our sails so we can move again). We are seeking resources to purchase our new sails, update our safety gear, repaint our hulls, build new deck boxes, and adjust our motor transom. 

You can help by in many ways - make a donation, volunteer your time, subscribe and share, or follow us on social media (links below). Donations by check can be mailed to Nā Kālai Wa‘a, P.O. Box 748, Kamuela, HI 96743. For questions email info@nakalaiwaa.org or call 808-885-9500.

Every bit helps keep Makali‘i moving strong and moving forward for generations to come. Mahalo Nui!

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