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| It has been more than twenty years since Hokule`a
sailed to Tahiti, proving that non-instrument navigation can be achieved in the modern
world. Following in the footsteps of our Polynesian ancestors, Hokule`a represented more
than an ocean expedition. It reclaimed an ancient way of life. The wa`a or canoe is, eternally, a way of life for the people of Polynesia and a means of self-reliance and survival. It fosters self-discovery and spiritual development. the Polynesian way of life evolved from the voyaging canoe, inspiring trust among all men and a belief in an ancient lore that goes far beyond modern human comprehension. Na Kalai wa`a Moku o Hawai`i, a non-profit organization on the west side of Hawai`i Island, was organized in March 1993. Its mission is to preserve, protect, and perpetuate the Hawaiian culture and to contribute toward a safe and healthy future for Hawai`i. An appreciation for the Hawaiian culture is generated through education, personal pride, and the awareness of cultural values significant to the Hawaiian society. Na Kalai wa`a began with the creation of Mauloa, a single-hulled canoe constructed of traditional materials, utilizing ancient methods. The success of the Mauloa provided the inspiration for Na Kalai wa`a's next project -- the construction of a double-hulled, ocean voyaging canoe of Hawaiian design and proportions. In February 1995, blessed by the rare appearance of a double rainbow, Makali`i was lowered into the waters of Kawaihae on the west side of Hawai`i Island. The 54-foot, fiber-glass, double-hulled canoe was constructed by the men and women of Na Kalai wa`a in Waimea under the direction of Captain Clay Bertelmann. Makali`i received support from numerous community resources, the people and businesses of the Big Island. After her maiden voyage to Tahiti and the Marquesas Islands of French Polynesia, Makali`i returned to Hawai`i to fulfill her mission -- to provide the Big Island with a "vessel" by which the community can be exposed to ancient Hawaiian traditions and values and to provide a platform for future generations to preserve the Hawaiian ocean-voyaging heritage which includes protocol, ocean seafaring and survival, the cultural arts, language, dance and chants, and environmental stewardship, the caring of the `aina.
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