Wai though Kanawai: Water for Hawaii’s streams and justice for Hawaiian communities

Source: (2012) Marquette Law Review 95:127

Kaulana Nl Wai ‘Eha: “Famous are the Four Great Waters” of
Waihe’e River, and Waiehu, ‘lao, and Waikapti Streams in the heart of
Central Maui.2 Since time immemorial, Kinaka Maoli (Native
Hawaiians)’ revered the abundance of fresh water in Hawai’i’s rivers and streams, including Nd Wai ‘Eh, as a physical embodiment of
Kaneikawaiola, a gift from the gods that brought life to the earth.’
Traditional songs about this area, such as “Na Wai Kaulana” by Alice
Namakelua, beckon listeners to “e ‘ike i nd wai ‘eha . . . ‘o na wai
kaulana ia a o ku’u ‘dina,” “behold the four great streams … which are
the famous waters of my home.