A contest was sponsored in 1860 by Kamehameha IV, who wanted a song with Hawaiian lyrics set to the tune of the British anthem.

Lunalilo was awarded 10 dollars which he later donated to the Queen's Hospital.

Ke Akua Mana Mau Hoʻomaikaʻi, pōmaikaʻi I ka mōʻī Kou lima mana mau Mālama kiaʻi mai Ko mākou nei mōʻī Ē ola ē

I mua ou mākou Ke aliʻi o nā Aliʻi E aloha mai E mau ke ea ē ʻO ke aupuni nei E ola mau mākou Me ka mōʻī Eternal, mighty God Bless us from your bright abode Our sovereign king May your all powerful arm Ward from our sire all harm Let no vile foe alarm Long may he reign

Royal distinguished name Our beauteous diadem Long life be yours Thy wing spread over our land From every foe defend To you our prayers ascend Long live our king