Seventeen-year-old Kahiau Kawai became separated from his high school paddling team when his kayak capsized approximately half a mile south of Waikiki Beach on Wednesday. Notably, he was not wearing a life jacket during his ordeal.
Kawai’s family expressed deep gratitude towards the state, city, and federal rescue teams that worked tirelessly through the night for his safe return. They extended special thanks to the off-duty lifeguard who independently conducted a search for their son.
In a heartfelt statement, Kawai’s parents commended their son’s strength and resilience, noting, “Kahiau, who could see rescue teams looking for him, was strong, resilient, and brave for 11.5 hours in the dark. He is grateful to be back with his family and friends.”
The high school’s paddling team reported Kawai missing during practice on Wednesday afternoon.
Around 4 a.m. Thursday, a Coast Guard airplane successfully located Kawai’s kayak, deploying a flare to signal his position off the coast of Waikiki.
Off-duty lifeguard Noland Keaulana, who has a background as a Polynesian voyager, played a vital role in the search. Upon discovering Kawai, he expressed relief at the teenager’s survival, stating, “I was expecting the worst, and then when I saw his head up next to the kayak… his family is lucky and this kid is strong.”
Kahiau was promptly treated for injuries and hypothermia at an emergency room, and he is reported to be in serious but stable condition.
