Native Hawaiians who believe a higher power watches over them completed a 193-mile trek around the island Saturday.  Kupuna  Ke’eaumoku Kapu In a powerful statement at journey’s end said “if we don’t practice our culture, we are going to lose it. The old ways link us together. It is that simple.” TOMORROW ON THIS SITE: Ending ceremonies in Moku’ula.   MARCH 19: my exclusive story in Lahaina News reporting on the march with a photo spread.  Produced by Norm Bezane, VOICES OF MAUI TALK STORY, LLC.

Behind the torches

Greeting Hawaiians at entrance of one of 12 mokus (ancient districts)

Waiting for marchers to cross Honopiilani Highway to enter Moku’ula, former home of Hawaiian royalty

Onward near Lahaina

Uncle Richard renouned Grammy winner meets the marchers

Onward

The blogger with notebook in hand doing reporting

In the home stretch after 193 miles

Pausing to be greeted at entrance to Lahaina Moku

Respect the culture says it all

Coconut man pulls up from Hawaii to dispense milk from coconuts to thirsty marchers.

Marchers proudly wore green shirts

The 11 moku through which marchers trekked 193 miles.

On the way to Lahaina along Honopiilani, named after an ancient king of Maui.

Hawaiians move forward on the march headed by torch holders and led by Kupuna Keomoku Kapu.