Hawaii State Song

The Hawaii State Song, Hawaii Ponoi,is about the unification of the Islands by King Kamehameha. It is a very well known song in the Islands, and the tune is very similar to “My Country ‘Tis of Thee.” Children in Hawaii learn it in school, and sing it at their school assemblies. It is sometimes sung at football games, and at state events. Quite often, when “My Country ‘Tis of Thee” is sung, it is followed by Hawaii Ponoi.


Hawaii ponoi

Hawaii ponoi Nana i kou,
moi Kalani Ali'i,
ke Ali'i.
Makua lani e Kamehameha e
Na kaua e pale Me ka i he.

(Translation)

Hawaii's own true sons,
Be loyal to your chief Your country's liege and lord,
The King Father above us all,
Kamehameha, Who guarded in the war with his spear.

Hawaiian can be tricky if you are not familiar with the language. For help with the pronunciation of the official Hawaii song, visit the language pages of this site where you will also learn Hawaiian words, and phrases.

Hawaii State Facts

Leave Hawaii State Song Page and go Home