The exhibition offers travel agents a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of Hawaiʻi’s rich heritage and royal history. By exploring authentic artefacts and stories of resilience and cultural pride, agents will see beyond the familiar image of beaches and cruises. This new knowledge enables them to present Hawaiʻi as a destination of profound cultural depth, inspiring their customers to engage with its traditions, people, and living history.
Commenting on Hawai’i Tourism Authority’s sponsorship of this extraordinary exhibition, Jadie Goo, Acting Chief Brand Officer said: “It represents a unique opportunity to showcase the depth, dignity, and continuing vitality of Hawaiian culture to European audiences. As we work to attract mindful travellers who seek authentic cultural connections, this collaboration with the British Museum allows us to position Hawaiʻi not simply as a destination, but as a living culture with profound historical ties to Britain and a story that extends far beyond beaches and tourism. In focusing on Native Hawaiian voices, honouring ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) and presenting these ancestral treasures with the care and reverence they deserve, we hope to inspire visitors to approach Hawaiʻi with the same respect and cultural curiosity they will experience in this exhibition - embodying the values of mālama (to care for), and kuleana (responsibility, privilege) that guide responsible travel to our islands.”
The exhibition commemorates 200 years since a series of events including the visit of Hawaiian King Liholiho (Kamehameha II) and Queen Kamāmalu to London with a royal delegation to seek alliance and protection from the Crown. This journey to the capital included a visit of the British Museum - the first record of Native Hawaiian aliʻi (chiefs and royals) at the Museum. Building from this moment, which marked a turning point in the shared history of the kingdoms of Hawaiʻi and the United Kingdom, the exhibition tells a compelling story of movement, allyship, and cultural exchange.

Exhibition runs from 15 January to 25 May