Cindi Punihoale is a Native Hawaiian who grew up in Kahaluu’u and West Hawaii in the 50’s. We asked her to share her story and insights about what life was like then and what has changed. She also provides advice for people arriving on the island as visitors or new residents. When you watch Cindi talk with us, you will see how she embodies Aloha and approaches tough issues like conserving the bay with kindness and an open willingness to listen.

Cindi is the Program Director for the Reef Teach Program at Kahulu’u Bay near Keauhou about six miles south of Kailua Kona on Hawai’i Island. She is the steward for this sacred and historic area and she has a mission to educate visitors and help protect the bay.

Cindi’s passion has also garnered the attention of a documentary film crew and they are currently fundraising to help bring Cindi’s story to a world wide audience.
To help in this Kickstarter effort go here:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/keeperofthebay/documentary-keeper-of-the-bay?fbclid=IwAR1lODg03NiHC3xEq-DmQ0q06-IMnUVCzkQb3FD5GxW-oSs-9Knzrn6KWXc

We would like to continue interviewing influential members of our community to help visitors and residents learn more about the history, culture and information about Hawai’i Island so they can then share with others and help Hawai’i thrive.

You can support our efforts on Patreon! AND our supporters can help choose who we interview, too!
https://www.patreon.com/365Hawaii

This interviewed appeared live on the 365Kona Newbies Group in late September 2021. Thanks to Cindi for her beautiful words!

#HawaiiHistory #TalkStory #KahaluuBay #NativeHawaiian