KILAUEA — The community is invited to the second “Welcome Back Moli Blessing Ceremony” at Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge at noon on Friday to honor laysan albatross as they return to Kauai.
Kumu Kehaulani Kekua and Halau Palaihiwa O Kaipuwai will present traditional protocols of chants and hula kahiko in honor of the event, which coincides with the Mmakahiki season.
The event is free. However, regular admission fees to Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge will apply. Adult admission is $10, keiki 15 and under are free with an adult admission, and Kama‘aina and “America The Beautiful” passes will be accepted.
“We hope to see many members of our local community at Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge for this event as we honor this amazing species and welcome back our beloved moli,” said Thomas Daubert, KPNHA executive director.
Each year, beginning in early November, the moli return from their time at sea to mate and nest on Kauai and across the many islands of the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, one of the largest marine conservation areas in the world.
This event is scheduled to coincide with the emergence of some of the first nests of the season.
“Our conservation community is fortunate to have several moli colonies located on Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge,” a press release said. “Located within the safety of the refuge and under predator management practices, the chicks have an increased chance of survival against common predators including feral cats, pigs, rats and dogs, all of which have had devastating impacts upon the many ground nesting bird species native to Hawaii.”
Makahiki is an ancient season that is very important within Hawaiian culture. The rising of makali‘i (the constellation Pleiades) at sunset marks the beginning of the Hawaiian new year, known as makahiki.
Makahiki usually begins mid-November and ends in late January or February, aligning with the rainy season. It is a time set aside for tribute, harvest, sport, and play. The moili, one of several revered kinolau or embodiments of the deity Lono, annually return to our islands during makahiki season. Even the colors of the moli are reflective of Lono’s symbols.
Members of the Halau Palaihiwa O Kaipuwaiwillpresent chants for Lono and Makahiki, which call for health and well-being for the environment and all of its occupants — winged, finned, human, and otherwise.
They will also be offering ho‘okupu that will debut two original chants and hula that Kumu Kehaulani Kekua composed especially for the moli and this occasion.
“We are truly honored to experience this second annual blessing presented by Kumu Kehaulani Kekua and her talented haumana of Halau Palaihiwa O Kaipuwai,” Daubert said. “You and your ‘ohana will not want to miss it.”
