They decided to use  rather than  to represent this phoneme. However, that does not prevent anyone from using the t realization, in speaking or in writing, if they so desire. T is used more than k by speakers of Niihau Hawaiian.
They opted for  instead of  to represent this phoneme. However, this does not prohibit anyone from using the t sound in speech or writing if desired. T is used more frequently than K by speakers of Niihau Hawaiian.