Spirits were high at Kauai Marriott Resort on Kalapaki Beach, where a traditional Hawaiian blessing was held Thursday to unveil the resort's new $50 million makeover. Led by Hawaiian Cultural Specialist Kehaulani Kekua, the resort's associates, partners, and community members took part in the ‘Aha Moku Ka Piko ceremony to usher in new life for the 356-room resort. The ceremony included the untying of a 20-foot maile lei by Area General Manager Brad Snyder, Resort Manager Steve Yannarell, and Director of Engineering Kirk Pierpoint.
The ceremony began with the blowing of the pu, or conch shell, and ‘oli, or chanting requesting permission of the land, Hawaiian gods and ancestors. Kehaulani also described the symbolism of the ceremony and maile lei.
Brad Snyder thanked all of those who assisted with the successful transformation of the resort, saying, "What started as a renovation nine months ago is now a rejuvenation project." The makeover includes completely transformed guest rooms and suites, refurbished Kukui's on Kalapaki Beach restaurant with the new Toro-Tei sushi restaurant, refreshed Aupaka Terrace overlooking the resort's 26,000 square-foot swimming pool with five whirlpools, brand new keiki (children's) pool with a slide and water spout features, and a new guest arrival experience with enhancements to the porte cochere, main lobby and registration desk.
Here is the ceremonial untying of the maile.
The event also included lively hula by Kumu Kehaulani's Halau Palaihiwa O Kaipuwai.
Mahalo to everyone who attended! We look forward to sharing this new resort experience with our new and return guests!
