On behalf of the Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association (NaHHA), welcome to our website.

This year we celebrate our 10th year as an advocate for the host Hawaiian culture in the hospitality industry.

Hawaiian culture and language differentiate Hawai`i from any other place in the world. It is a thriving culture that encompasses vast history, extensive knowledge, spiritual depth, relevant values, and natural treasures. It is a living culture filled with practices that are useful today relative to health and healing, land and ocean management, martial arts, farming and agriculture, fishing, even business and science. Hawaiian music, dance, and song have long brought communities together, provided social benefit, and immense entertainment value worldwide. Artists from kapa-makers and weavers to carvers and lei-makers pour Hawaiian soul into their works. Hawaiian culture continues to evolve and incorporate textile and clothing design, painting, graphic design, film arts and digital technology, jewelry design, and business enterprise.

There is renewed interest from the Hawaiian community and organizations, government, and the visitor industry to restore a deep connection to Hawai`i’s host culture and the qualities that have historically differentiated Hawai`i as unique in the world. If all stakeholders are willing to step forward and commit the time and effort necessary to address relevant issues, we can certainly solve some of the challenges and gain success together.

NaHHA is dedicated to bringing together those of goodwill in the industry and the community. Many in tourism wish to show respect for the culture and preserve this special place, but need guidance in doing so. Some Native Hawaiians have made hospitality their career, but struggle to balance the benefits and challenges. Others have turned their back on tourism in frustration. It is our mission to bridge these differences.

We are working with Hawaiian organizations, the Hawaiian community and with those in the tourism industry who share our vision to promote:

- Education in Hawaiian history, culture, values and traditions
- Interaction between tourism leadership and the Hawaiian community
- Care and protection of our natural resources
- Native Hawaiians who wish to achieve success in hospitality endeavors that are respectful of
  the land and culture
- Healthy, sustainable communities that benefit from tourism

We welcome your support, questions, and thoughts as we celebrate year ten of our mission.

Nā Mākou Me Ka Ha‘aha‘a

The NaHHA ‘Ohana