It is found in Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui, Lanai, Hawaii, Nihoa, Necker Island, Pearl and Hermes Reef, Midway, Kure, Wake island, Canton island, Jarvis island, but is probably much more widely distributed in the Pacific.
After the deaths of the Kamakawiwoʻole brothers, Skippy and internationally known Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, the remaining members dropped the "of Niihau" and now are known as the Makaha Sons, a trio of singers consisting of Louis "Moon" Kauakahi on 6-string guitar, John Koko (now deceased, 6/25/12, age 51) on upright acoustic bass and Jerome Koko on 12-string guitar.