Kaunaoa, The Lei of Lanai
Kaunaoa Lei
(Cuscuta sandwichiana)
Noted as a lei for the people of the windward shores of Lanai; and commemorated in a mele inoa (name chant) for the chief Haalelea, once owner of the ahupuaa of Palawai.
Hanohano Lanai i ke Kaunaoa
Hanohano Lanai i ke kaunaoa,
Kohu kapa 'ahu'ula kau po'ohiwi,
E ola Lanai ia Kaululaau.
Hea aku makou, e o mai 'oe.
Lanai is distinguished by the kaunaoa,
Which is like a feather cloak set upon
its shoulders,
May there be life upon Lanai of
the chief Kaululaau.
We call to you, that you may answer us.
Click to hear oli, with Iiwi in background.
Hanohano Lanai i ke Kaunaoa (chanted by Kepa Maly)