Nation of Hawai‘i Film Commission
Supporting responsible film, television, and digital media production rooted in Hawaiian cultural stewardship and economic development.
ABOUT THE COMMISSION
The Nation of Hawai‘i Film Commission serves as the official advisory body supporting film, television, and digital media production aligned with Hawaiian cultural integrity and ʻāina stewardship.
While the Commission does not issue permits, it provides structured guidance, cultural consultation, and coordination support to productions operating within or in partnership with the Nation’s land base and community initiatives.
Our mandate is to cultivate a responsible production environment that strengthens Hawaiian storytelling, supports local creative development, and fosters long-term economic opportunity rooted in place.
Commission Services
The Nation of Hawai‘i supports a production philosophy rooted in sustainability and long-term cultural integrity.
Production Advisory & Coordination
• Centralized point of contact for production
• Coordination guidance for filming within or near Nation-affiliated lands
• Scheduling advisement in alignment with community considerations
Workforce & Creative Development
• Connection to emerging local talent, youth and emerging industries
• Creative industry networking and growing production eco-system
• Exploration of training pathways and youth mentorship initiatives
Cultural Protocol & Community Engagement
• Consultation on Hawaiian practice and protocol
• Working respectfully within Hawaiian communities
• Appropriate storytelling and cultural representation
KAWIKA HOKE, COMISSIONER
“Hawai‘i is a place of deep stories — stories carried through family, land, ocean, and generations. The Nation of Hawai‘i Film Commission exists to honor those stories and the people who hold them.”
Our goal is simple: when film and media engage with Hawai‘i, it should feel collaborative, respectful, and grounded in relationship. We want our creatives, our keiki, and our communities to see themselves reflected with dignity and truth. At the same time, we welcome filmmakers and partners who approach this work with aloha and a willingness to listen.
Current Initiatives:
• Development of Film Commission Bylaws
• Industry Partnership Framework
• Sustainable Production Guidelines
• Workforce Training Programs
Downloadable Materials:
• Factbook & Historical Timeline
• Production Guidelines (PDF)
• Cultural Protocol Overview
• Media Kit (Logos, flag, official descriptions)
Kawika Hoke serves as the Commissioner of the Nation of Hawai‘i Film Commission, where he leads strategic development of the Nation’s film, digital media, and creative economy initiatives.
In this role, Commissioner Hoke is responsible for fostering sustainable and culturally grounded production partnerships, guiding film permitting and regulatory frameworks, and advancing creative workforce development rooted in Hawaiian values and ʻāina stewardship.
Our Mandate
CITIZENSHIP & PARTICIPATION
Citizenship in the Nation of Hawai‘i affirms your connection to ʻāina and your commitment to peaceful restoration. Citizens and supporters may participate through civic engagement, community service, cultural stewardship, and aligned national initiatives.