Friday, April 11, 2025
Rep. Case angers fellow Dems with voter ID vote, cruise ship tax brings lawsuit threat, counties could lose affordable housing oversight, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands
Hawaiʻi Lawmakers Appear Poised To Crack Down On Pay-To-Play Politics. Lawmakers are working to outlaw political donations from people who win government contracts.. But key supporters of the legislation still need to come to an agreement on critical points including how contractors and nonprofit organizations will have to report who their officers and close family members are and whether that information will be kept secret from the public. Civil Beat.
An effort to increase taxes on cruise ships has drawn a legal threat from the industry, and executives say if their customers have to pay more, they may stop cruising here. Lawmakers say they are only proposing that cruise ship passengers pay the same taxes as other visitors. Hawaii News Now.
Counties could lose some oversight over affordable housing developments. State lawmakers are advancing a measure that would not allow county councils to impose conditions or median income restrictions stricter than the ones established by the state — if those conditions will increase the cost of the project. The measure would also not allow counties to reduce fee waivers for these projects. Hawaii Public Radio.
Senators Question Qualifications Of Governor’s Picks For Education Board. Gov. Josh Green withdrew one of his nominees to the Board of Education the day before senators were set to vote on his confirmation. Civil Beat.
Film industry says cameras won't keep rolling in Hawaiʻi without higher tax incentives. Hawaiʻi issued an estimated $24.5 million in film tax credits in 2024, according to a report to the state Legislature that looked at figures from last year. Hawaii Public Radio.
Thousands of Hawaii students not immunized against measles. After Hawaii confirmed its first measles case in years, the state Education and Health departments are ramping up vaccination efforts, focusing on thousands of students who remain noncompliant with school immunization requirements. Star-Advertiser.
Oahu
Mayor says city now negotiating with landowner for new North Shore first responder center. Those attending Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s town hall meeting Thursday were greeted by a large LED screen that touted a plan to build a first responder center across from Kapoo, also known as Sharks Cove.The parcel would be big enough for ambulance and ocean safety services, and maybe more. Hawaii News Now.
Honolulu Police Department looks to hire those impacted by federal cuts. The City and County of Honolulu is still actively recruiting displaced federal employees and professionals from non-governmental organizations impacted by federal funding cuts. Hawaii Public Radio.
Empty apartments will soon be home to Oahu’s most vulnerable. For more than three years, 27 brand new low-income apartments have sat empty in the heart of Iwilei. Despite Hawaii’s housing crisis, red tape created by the way the City chose to fund the project kept it from meeting requirements to move people in. Hawaii News Now.
Nearly 150 workers at The Modern Honolulu, represented by UNITE HERE Local 5, have reached a tentative agreement on a new contract. Highlights include significant wage increases, enhanced job security, and improvements related to workload. Hawaii News Now.
Unexpected collaboration brings science and culture to the same table. The Conversation spoke with scientist Astrid Delorme of the Center for Marine Debris Research at Hawaiʻi Pacific University, and Waimānalo cultural practitioner Kimeona Kāne about what their unexpected collaboration can teach others. Hawaii Public Radio.
Hawaii Island
Part Of Aliʻi Drive Could Become One-Way Under Parking Proposal. An event to discuss the Aliʻi Drive proposal will be held on Saturday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Hale Halawai. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.
30 Megawatt Solar Project Begins Operations In Waimea. The Innergex Renewable Energy, Inc. Hale Kuawehi Solar and Battery Storage Project began commercial operations on March 25th. Big Island Video News.
ACLU seeks required recording of police interrogations. Hawaii Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on State v. Zuffante on Thursday at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Star-Advertiser.
Maui
More Maui County employees, but where do they park? No comprehensive plan, yet. Maui County Council Member Nohelani Uʻu-Hodgins had that question in mind Wednesday afternoon when the Department of Management came before the Budget, Finance and Economic Development Committee as part of the annual department-by-department review of fiscal 2026 budget proposals. In total, Mayor Richard Bissen’s proposed budget is $1.5 billion. Maui Now.
Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke visits Maui preschools. Maui preschoolers welcomed a special visitor this week as Hawai’i Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke visited new classrooms at Haʻikū Elementary and Kīhei Elementary. Maui News.
An effort to help alleviate Maui’s dire shortage of affordable housing by having a state agency acquire and convert commercial buildings to partial residential use has come up short at this year’s Legislature but still might produce results. Star-Advertiser.
Kauai
Kauaʻi Businesses Fear ‘Breaking Point’ With Interisland Shipping Rate Hike. Young Brothers is seeking approval from Hawai‘i regulators to significantly increase interisland shipping rates. Civil Beat.
Waimea 400 Affordable Housing Master Plan workshop rescheduled. A community workshop for the Waimea 400 Affordable Housing Master Plan is now scheduled for 5 to 7 p.m. today in the cafeteria at Waimea Canyon Middle School, located at 9555 Huakaʻi Road in Waimea, after being postponed from its original March 6 date. Kauai Now.
Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Governor urges caution as measles hits state, Legislature mulls tax hikes on hotels, cruise ships, $170M condo insurance relief bill aims for June implementation, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands
Hotel, cruise ship tax hike aims to reduce wildfire, climate risk. Tourists would collectively pay millions of dollars more each year to stay in Hawaii hotels and on cruise ships to help the state address climate change and reduce the risk of future wildfires under a bill approved Tuesday by the full House. Star-Advertiser.
Tax Bills Win Preliminary Approval From Hawaiʻi Lawmakers. The House and Senate are also considering allowing legalized gambling for the first time in state history. Hawaiʻi lawmakers advanced bills to increase an assortment of state taxes along with measures to legalize sports betting and levy a green fee on visitors to help pay for climate change mitigation in floor voting Tuesday. Civil Beat.
State lawmakers endorse subsidized housing for state employees. House Bill 1298 proposes to provide grants and loans to develop leasehold condominiums on state land in transit-oriented development areas predominantly for state workers with moderate incomes as a way to help recruit and retain employees. Star-Advertiser.
$170 Million Hawaii Hurricane Relief Fund hopes to help associations with insurance shortfalls by June 1. Officials are now meeting weekly to try and get the Hawaii Hurricane Relief Fund up and running to try and get help to condo owners this summer. KHON2.
Lawmakers’ Effort Falters To Keep Cops From Taking Property Before Conviction. Police agencies insist they need to take suspects’ property to fight crime, but reformers argue the system has been abused. Civil Beat.
Hawaii’s college and career readiness indicators demonstrate mixed trends. The College and Career Readiness Indicators Summary Report, released last week by Hawaii P-20 Partnerships for Education, presents both progress and concerns, tracking key metrics such as graduation rates, standardized testing performance, dual credit participation and college enrollment. Star-Advertiser.
Hawaiʻi deadline nears to get a Real ID-compliant card. Starting May 7, adults will need Real ID driver’s licenses or ID cards — which meet federal guidelines — to check in for flights or enter some federal buildings. Hawaii Public Radio.
Oahu
State and Honolulu County in negotiations over major land deal. At the center of the deal is city-owned land under the Alii Place office tower, which both the city and state government have had their eye on for years, because it is close to both the state Capitol and Honolulu Hale, and could be a convenient new home for government offices and even lawmakers during major renovations. Hawaii News Now.
Investigation underway after service member found dead at Wheeler Army Airfield. It’s unclear how long the decedent had been there. Sources confirm the man’s body showed signs of decomposition. Hawaii News Now.
HPD’s AustinEwaliko suspended after allegedly releasing Jan. 1 Aliamanu information. A five-year veteran of the Honolulu Police Department had his police powers suspended after he allegedly pulled information about the investigation into the deadly Jan. 1 Aliamanu fireworks explosion and gave it to suspects. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.
Pilot in 2019 Oʻahu Helicopter Crash Wasn’t Properly Certified, FAA Says. The FAA says a whistleblower was correct in saying the owner of the helicopter tour company shouldn’t have certified the pilot, but investigators didn’t substantiate allegations of broader problems. Civil Beat.
Crummy conditions plague Oahu park, garden. A group of volunteers just wants to grow their own food, but they say they are dealing with threats, damage and unsanitary conditions at Makiki District Park. KHON2.
Hawaii Island
Mayor touts early success; Alameda gives State of the County Address, claims ‘best start ever’. “I got to tell you, best start ever. You heard it. Best start ever.” Straight from Mayor Kimo Alameda’s mouth, that was the overarching theme of his first State of the County Address, which he delivered Tuesday to an audience of his cabinet and prominent supporters at Nani Mau Gardens in Hilo. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.
ACLU Files Amicus Brief On Police Failure To Record Interrogations. In a Hawaiʻi Supreme Court case involving the Hawaiʻi county police, the ACLU of Hawaiʻi requests the law require police to record custodial interrogations. Big Island Video News.
Hawai‘i County reaches agreement with nonprofit to address treated sewage entering Big Island waters. Hawaiʻi County is taking steps to address treated sewage discharged from the Kealakehe Wastewater Treatment Plant flowing into Honokōhau Small Boat Harbor six miles south of Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport. Big Island Now.
Hawaiʻi County seeks to study how Waikoloa evacuates during a disaster. Hawaiʻi County wants to move around some federal funds in order to pay for a new Waikoloa Village evacuation study. The study would estimate how long it takes residents to escape the village in the event of a disaster like a wildfire or a hurricane. Hawaii Public Radio.
Maui
Residents oppose Lahaina rebuild over pool, water concerns. A number of Maui residents testified Tuesday against a proposal by a Lahaina property owner to substantially rebuild a two-story house to what it was before the August 2023 Lahaina wildfire. Maui News.
Maui County residents invited to sign up for new evacuation planning platform. Residents and visitors of Maui County are encouraged to download the app, which will allow users to view predetermined evacuation zones, track live statuses and receive real-time notifications. Hawaii Public Radio.
Haʻikū fire station construction expected to go out for bid in September. A notice to proceed with construction of the Haʻikū Fire Station is scheduled for April 2026, if all permits and entitlements are approved. Then, in July 2028, the fully outfitted station is expected to be ready to house firefighters, fire trucks and other equipment. Maui Now.
Kauai
Additional lane, road closures and water service shutdown planned in various areas. Here’s a look at some additional upcoming lane and road closures along with a water service shutdown planned around the Garden Isle during the next week. Kauai Now.
Tuesday, April 25, 2023
Army seeks to renew military land leases, legislators reach tentative tax break deal, governor proposes expansion of homeless villages, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands
Tentative deal reached on tax breaks as legislative session enters home stretch. Key lawmakers say they have reached a tentative agreement on tax breaks for Hawaii residents. The news comes as the legislative session enters the home stretch Monday, with the first formal negotiation session over the $20 billion state budget. Hawaii News Now.
Green’s First Veto: A Condo Bill That Could Have Increased The Cost Of Housing. Hawaii Gov. Josh Green issued the first veto of his administration on Friday, rejecting a bill that was supposed to clarify an unusual scenario in which condominium owners sued the developer of their project for construction flaws more than a decade after construction was finished. Civil Beat.
Hawaii Governor Plans To Develop More Tiny Home Villages Statewide. Gov. Josh Green promised more tiny home villages will be built around the state, regardless of opposition from local communities, as his administration tackles homelessness. Civil Beat.
DOH urges vigilance following second case of measles on Oahu. The state Department of Health on Monday confirmed a second case of measles on Oahu. The resident was exposed to the previously confirmed case in an international traveler. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.
Oahu
Homeless ‘medical respite’ kauhale planned on Oahu. Gov. Josh Green plans to expand his homeless kauhale village concept within a month to erect the state’s first “medical respite” kauhale for homeless people across from The Queen’s Medical Center “in my backyard” for eight to 10 homeless people at a time who disproportionately use emergency rooms only to end up back on the street, Green said. Star-Advertiser.
Controversial 6-foot-tall walls remain in latest Ala Wai flood mitigation proposal. The latest flood mitigation plan for the Ala Wai Canal is starting to take shape, and it still includes large walls that have been unpopular with the public. Hawaii Public Radio.
Conflict Of Interest? Neighborhood Board Employees Are Running For Seats On The Boards. Questions are being raised about whether as elected board members the employees can effectively question their bosses. Nine employees of the Honolulu Neighborhood Commission Office, the city agency that oversees Oahu’s 33 neighborhood boards, have signed up to run for elected seats on the boards themselves. Civil Beat.
Prominent Honolulu Condo Board Members Are On Trial For Alleged Retaliation. The lawsuits claims the Hokua board members used their positions to help themselves and each other without disclosing conflicts of interest. Testing a Hawaii law prohibiting retaliation by condominium boards, a trial began on Monday pitting a retired Army officer against several prominent members of Hawaii’s real estate and development community who served alongside the retired officer as directors of one of Honolulu’s landmark luxury condominiums. Civil Beat.
Bishop Museum probe ends with no findings. An investigation of the board of directors of Bishop Museum prompted by a formal complaint from loyalists of the ousted president and CEO has found no financial mismanagement or wrongdoing. Star-Advertiser.
Slew of rescues highlight hiker safety. After a series of hike rescues over the weekend, state officials are reminding people to take precautions, know their limits and be aware how hot it can get on exposed trails. Star-Advertiser.
Hawaii Island
Green weighs in on feral cats: Governor sending DLNR chief to the Big Island following protest in Waikoloa. Gov. Josh Green said Monday he’s dispatching Department of Land and Natural Resources Director Dawn Chang to the Big Island today “to work out a peaceful solution” between DLNR, owners and mangers of the Queen’s Marketplace, and feral cat advocates who feed the felines behind the Waikoloa Beach shopping center. Tribune-Herald.
Hawai‘i County seeking proposals for affordable housing funding. Up to $18 million will soon be available to qualified applicants working to increase, support, or sustain the availability of affordable housing in Hawaiʻi County. Big Island Now.
Draft EA offers more details about Pohoiki ramp dredging. The reopening of the Pohoiki Boat Ramp is one step closer after a draft environmental assessment for the dredging project was published Sunday. Tribune-Herald.
Maui
New Rules That Seek To Better Protect Maui’s Coastlines Will Take Effect Soon. Planning officials are paving the way for some big changes with how the local government controls development and construction projects close to and along Maui’s coastlines. Civil Beat.
Maui median home price is $1.2M, up 1.9% in March 2023. The last time Maui’s median was above $1.2 million was in June of 2022 when the median was $1.242M. Maui Now. Maui News.
Kauai
Kaua‘i police warn of ongoing thefts targeting residents and visitors. According to officials, a recent rash of car break-ins and thefts have occurred in residential neighborhoods islandwide. Kauai Now.
Tuesday, April 11, 2023
Lawmakers advance bills fighting felony fraud, Elon Musk Starship may land near Kauai, homeless relocation bill advances, measles spotted on Oahu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands
Priced-out Hawaii residents check out of paradise. Gov. Josh Green and state lawmakers frequently cite the ongoing threat of losing residents and are pushing legislation to help residents stay. With less than a month before the end of the legislative session, several measures designed to lower Hawaii’s cost of living remain alive. Star-Advertiser.
Proposed homeless relocation program flies to Senate floor for consideration. A bill at the state Legislature would create a three-year pilot program at the Department of Human Services to help people experiencing homelessness return to the continent, or other parts of the state, to rejoin their families. Hawaii Public Radio.
Fragments in Republican caucus lead to more bipartisan work for one state lawmaker. Republicans in the state House of Representatives tripled in size this session, from two to six members. In title, state Rep. Kanani Souza of Kapolei and Makakilo is the minority caucus whip, but she hasn’t attended minority caucus meetings since the end of January. Hawaii Public Radio.
Condo Management Giant’s License Is Reactivated By Hawaii Regulators. Following a regulatory compliance problem that rendered Associa Hawaii unable to practice in the state, the property management giant has come into compliance with state laws governing such firms, state records indicate. Civil Beat.
Hawaiʻi teens lead second youth climate change trial in US history. A climate change lawsuit brought by a group of Hawaiʻi's youth against the state Department of Transportation is moving ahead. It's now scheduled for a fall trial. Hawaii Public Radio.
Hawaii Health Department confirms measles in Oahu resident. State health officials are investigating a case of measles in an unvaccinated Oahu resident upon returning from international travel. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.
Oahu
Honolulu City Council studying its own tax-relief measures. A slew of real property taxation measures that might offer tax credits, tax exemptions or other means to aid homeowners affected by the approximately 10% or greater increase in real property assessments on Oahu is under consideration by the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.
Why Does It Take So Long To Fire Bad Cops In Honolulu? Recent national stories report officers involved in shootings and other serious incidents are quickly fired. But in Hawaii final discipline can take years. Civil Beat.
Military to provide health care to civilians affected by Red Hill water. The Defense Health Agency announced Monday that it will begin evaluating — and potentially providing medical treatment to — civilians affected by the Red Hill water crisis from now until March 10 on a “space available” basis. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.
Bishop Museum seeks recurring funding. State officials are working to establish annual funding for Bishop Museum to support and help stabilize Hawaii’s flagship repository of Hawaiian culture, science and community as it moves forward under its fourth CEO in the past seven years. Star-Advertiser.
Cirque du Soleil planning new show in Waikiki. Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group and Outrigger Hospitality Group have some high- flying news: They’ve entered into a joint venture that will add Hawaii next year to Cirque’s shortlist of destinations with shows in residence. Star-Advertiser. KHON2. KITV4.
DOE Looking Into Financial Records Of Kailua School Composting Program. Proceeds from compost sales to the public are kept by the partner schools. Civil Beat.
Hawaii Island
Grand Naniloa woes linger: Owners again seek permission to refinance loan. The beleaguered owners of the Grand Naniloa Hotel are once again requesting to refinance its mortgage to the tune of $54 million. Tribune-Herald.
Merrie Monarch Festival attendees urged not to transport ‘ohi‘a. Merrie Monarch Festival attendees are urged to not transport ‘ohi‘a in order to prevent the further spread of rapid ‘ohi‘a death. Tribune-Herald.
Maui
Council committee to hear from Upcountry Maui residents on county budget Wednesday. The Budget, Finance and Economic Development Committee will receive testimony from Upcountry Maui residents on the county’s fiscal year 2024 budget Wednesday, April 12, at 6 p.m. at Mayor Hannibal Tavares Community Center. Maui Now.
Draft EA filed for Hālau of ‘Ōiwi Art, construction expected to start in 2024. The Hālau is designed to be a Hawaiian cultural and community center to help advance hula and native and local arts. Maui Now.
Kauai
Elon Musk Starship may land near Kaua‘i this month. The most powerful rocket ever built could splash down off the coast of Kaua‘i within the next two weeks, according to Elon Musk’s Twitter account. Garden Island.
Monday, December 9, 2019
Hawaii state bird no longer endangered, OHA audit finds $7.8M possible fraud, Honolulu B&B tax hiked, mixed results in Kauai sonar study, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands
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Nene in Hawaii wetlands ©2019 All Hawaii News |
Nene’s status to be downgraded from endangered to threatened. Hawaii’s state bird is no longer on the edge of extinction. West Hawaii Today.
Feds: Nene Is Still Threatened But Not Endangered. The Interior Department has reduced the level of protection for Hawaii’s state bird. Civil Beat.
The Nene species is on the road to recovery. Hawaii’s state bird, the Nene, is on the road to recovery. That’s according to the U.S. Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt. KHON2.
Hawaiian nene taken off endangered species list. 52 years ago, there were only 50 Hawaiian nene birds in the state and had to be declared endangered species. There are now 3,000 birds in Hawaii thanks to an intensive breeding program. KITV.
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OHA investigation identifies $7.8M of possible fraud. An independent financial review of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs has identified transactions worth $7.8 million as potentially fraudulent, wasteful and abusive. Star-Advertiser.
OHA Trustees Differ Over New Audit’s Analysis. Colette Machado says it confirms the office is moving in the “right direction” but Kelii Akina sees fraud and abuse. Civil Beat.
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Lawsuit: DOE Retaliated When Staffer Reported Misuse Of Federal Funds. Carol Young says her troubles began when she blew the whistle on faulty payments to a DOE office worker. Civil Beat.
New Solicitor General Named. Kimberly Tsumoto Guidry has been named the new Solicitor General for the State of Hawaiʻi. Maui Now.
Health officials urge travelers to stay away from Samoa as measles death toll rises to 70. At least 70 people have died from the infectious virus in Samoa, while nine cases have been reported in American Samoa. Hawaii News Now.
Oahu
Council approves B&B property tax increase. Owners of bed-and- breakfast vacation rentals will likely pay more in property taxes starting next year after the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday approved a bill creating a new B&B tax category. Star-Advertiser.
How The Gas Company Plans To Fight A Bill Banning Gas Water Heaters. Hawaii Gas, the 115-year-old supplier of natural gas for Hawaii now at a crossroads amid the state’s shift from fossil fuels, is considering creating a separate community organization as part of a campaign to fight a Honolulu City Council bill. Civil Beat.
Nonplastic foodware might cause problems — or not. A bill banning the use of nearly all plastic plates, forks, knives and other food service items on Oahu was passed Wednesday by the Honolulu City Council, but there’s sharp disagreement about whether there will be enough nonplastic replacement goods available at a reasonable price when the prohibition takes full effect in 2022. Star-Advertiser.
Wahiawa has struggled since the collapse of the pineapple industry. But new projects, some supported by political leaders, are giving city leaders new hope. Civil Beat.
Hawaii Island
County throwing away more, recycling less. Hawaii County’s rate of recycling or otherwise diverting garbage from the landfill has dropped 48% in the past decade, according to a comprehensive report released Friday by a commission that meets once a decade to evaluate solid waste practices. West Hawaii Today.
Fujino named interim chief judge of Third Circuit. In addition to his criminal and civil court caseload, drug court and veterans court, Kona Circuit Court Judge Melvin H. Fujino is taking on a whole lot more. West Hawaii Today.
Study of Hilo Bay breakwater expected to begin in early 2020. A state and federal study to determine whether the Hilo Bay breakwater should be modified likely will begin early next year. Tribune-Herald.
Demonstration project seeks to reduce reliance on Christmas conifer imports. After five years of growing, an ongoing project to establish a Christmas tree farming industry on the Big Island is closer than ever to completion. Tribune-Herald.
Maui
Maui County bill wants police to tow cars from drunken drivers. It's a bill some lawmakers hope could save lives. KITV.
Inventory for single-family homes in Maui falls to new low. Maui County’s inventory for single-family homes dropped to a new low in November, with 442 properties available for sale in active status at the end of the month, according to the Realtors Association of Maui monthly report. Maui News.
DMVL is set to move into new service center in late 2020. The bottom floor of the new two-story Maui County Service Center — which will include the Division of Motor Vehicles and Licensing — in Alexander & Baldwin’s Maui Business Park II is set to be operational by the end of 2020, a county spokesman said. Maui News.
Kauai
Mixed results in sonar study. Scientists studying sonar’s effect on marine mammals near the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Missile Range Facility at Barking Sands have released another report in an ongoing study for the Navy’s U.S. Pacific Fleet, and it’s showing the same kind of mixed results they’ve been documenting since 2011. Garden Island.
Friday, December 6, 2019
Pearl Harbor Day ceremonies to go on despite shooting, Board of Education OKs teacher pay raises, Big Islanders fight free Wi-Fi, 21 cattle die on Kauai-bound barge, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands
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USS Arizona Memorial PC:U.S. Parks Service |
Navy sailor who killed 2 at Pearl Harbor shipyard was facing disciplinary proceeding. The U.S. Navy sailor who fatally shot two at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard on Wednesday and wounded a third was having disciplinary problems at work and had been enrolled in anger management courses, multiple sources confirm. Hawaii News Now.
Many questions hang over Pearl Harbor shooting. The troubled 22-year-old Pearl Harbor sailor identified as shooting three shipyard workers Wednesday and then killing himself may have come from a troubled ship. Star-Advertiser.
Gunman, two victims identified following Pearl Harbor shooting. The gunman and the two victims that died in Wednesday’s shooting incident at Pearl Harbor has been identified. KHON2.
30-year-old Wai'anae man identified as a victim in the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard shooting. One of the two men killed by a US sailor at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard was identified on Thursday as 30-year-old Vincent Kapoi Junior. KITV.
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School board approves plan to boost pay for special ed, Hawaiian immersion teachers. The Board of Education voted Thursday to give qualified, licensed teachers in the most critical shortage areas a big pay boost starting Jan. 7 to try to keep them on the job and attract more educators. Star-Advertiser.
BOE OKs pay increase for teachers in hard-to-fill positions. The state Board of Education on Thursday approved a proposal to address Hawaii’s continuing teacher shortage by increasing pay for classroom teachers in areas that have faced the most severe staff shortages. Tribune-Herald.
BOE Passes Teacher Pay Increases 7-2. Educators in specialized fields and hard-to-staff geographical areas are on track to receive extra compensation by January. Big Island Now.
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‘One Giant Pediatric Measles Ward’: A Samoan Hospital Is Overwhelmed. Some of Hawaii’s medical team in Samoa are providing care at the hospital, which is strapped for equipment, space and manpower. Civil Beat.
Samoans grateful for Hawaii medical team. An emergency medical team from Hawaii, along with Samoan volunteers and aid workers from other countries, immunized more than 20,000 residents on the first day of a mandatory vaccination campaign. Star-Advertiser.
OHA Trustees Differ Over New Audit’s Analysis. Colette Machado says it confirms the office is moving in the “right direction” but Kelii Akina sees fraud and abuse. Civil Beat.
Oahu
New HART Analyses Show Millions Of Dollars In Added Rail Costs. The projected costs to complete Honolulu’s 20-mile rail transit system have grown by about $70 million in the past four months, based on the local rail agency’s ongoing analyses of risks to the project. Civil Beat.
Mayor Kirk Caldwell reaffirms support for plastics ban. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell Thursday reaffirmed that he will likely sign a bill approved by the City Council Wednesday that would ban most food-service type, single-use plastics on Oahu by 2022. Star-Advertiser.
Hawaii Island
Wi-Fi fears: Some don’t want free Wi-Fi at county facilities. Fear of radio wave exposure and a desire not to be around cellphone users inspired more than 50 people to send the County Council testimony opposing free Wi-Fi at county parks and facilities. West Hawaii Today.
Police operations on Mauna Kea are expensive ‘speed trap,’ county chairman says. Hawaii County police stationed on Mauna Kea have issued more than 7,600 traffic citations during the protests against the Thirty Meter Telescope, and a frustrated Hawaii County Council Chairman Aaron Chung is now describing police operations on the mountain as an enormously expensive “speed trap.” Star-Advertiser.
HELCO celebrates 125 years. At the end of the 19th century, Akima Brown Akui began working for the newly founded Hilo Electric Light Company. Tribune-Herald.
Maui
Opponents become backers of West Maui development. Pulelehua plan with bump to 500 affordable units hammered out at meeting. The state Land Use Commission on Wednesday credited community engagement with producing an agreement that may finally help move forward a West Maui housing and commercial development project that’s stagnated for more than a decade. Maui News.
PUC contested case hearing underway for Paeahu Solar project. The state consumer advocate Wednesday warned about “pursuing clean energy goals at any cost” and allowing the pursuit of renewables that could leave developers and neighbors “fighting against each other.” Maui News.
New Ban on Maui: Commercial Ocean Recreation Activities Prohibited on Sundays and Holidays. Starting on Jan. 1, 2020, the County of Maui will prohibit Commercial Ocean Recreation Activities at County beach parks on Sundays and holidays. Maui Now.
Kauai
County hires Mel Rapozo. Former county councilmember Mel Rapozo has been hired as an investigator for the Kauai County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, according to a county spokesperson. Garden Island.
Critics: Deaths of 21 cattle on barge bound for Kauai ‘cruel and inhumane’. State Agriculture Department officials said 21 cattle died while they were being transported on a Young Brothers barge bound for Kauai last month. Hawaii News Now.
Let the healing begin. Teenagers struggling with substance abuse will soon be able to get the treatment they need without leaving the island. Garden Island.
Wednesday, December 4, 2019
Lt. Gov. Green, medical delegation off to Samoa to fight measles, pay hikes for hard-to-place teachers, Kauai councilman refuses to step down after arrest, more news from all the Hawaii Islands
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Lt. Gov. Josh Green M.D. with child. Screen grab from campaign video. |
Hawaii Sends A Medical Mission To Help Samoa Measles Crisis. A group of at least 65 health care professionals are flying to Samoa early Wednesday morning to administer vaccines. Civil Beat.
Hawaii flying in vaccines, large medical team to Samoa as deadly measles outbreak worsens. Lt. Gov. Josh Green will travel to Samoa with a team of medical professionals early Wednesday to assist with a measles outbreak that’s already killed 55 people. Hawaii News Now.
DOH Advises Travelers: Be On Alert For Measles. The Hawaii Department of Health on Tuesday warned travelers to be on alert for measles “as international outbreaks around the Pacific and elsewhere continue to increase.” Civil Beat.
DOH Alerts Travelers of Measles. The Hawaii Department of Health is advising travelers to be on alert for measles as international outbreaks around the Pacific and elsewhere continue to increase. Big Island Now.
Lawmaker Wants Hawaii To Cap Prescription Drug Prices. The House Health Committee chairman plans to introduce legislation modeled after a new Maryland law that creates a prescription drug price monitoring board. Civil Beat.
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Statewide bankruptcies climb to 4-year high. With one more month still to go, the number of Hawaii bankruptcies in 2019 already has reached its highest total in four years. Star-Advertiser.
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Pay hikes proposed for rural, special education and Hawaiian immersion teachers. The proposal calls for pay differentials of $10,000 a year for special education teachers, $8,000 for Hawaiian immersion teachers, and $3,000 to $8,000 for teachers in hard-to-staff areas, depending on the severity of the need. Star-Advertiser.
Governor Ige announces 14.5 million dollar plan to raise teacher salaries. There are 800 teacher vacancies that need to be filled, according to the Hawaii Department of Education. KITV.
State unveils teacher pay plan aimed at ending shortage of qualified educators. The schools superintendent, governor and other education leaders pitched what they called a bold plan aimed at ending the teacher shortage. Hawaii News Now.
State proposes pay increase for certain teachers. Officials hope to increase pay for classroom teachers in three areas: special education, Hawaiian language immersion programs, and hard-to-staff geographic locations. KHON2.
A proposal by the state Department of Education aims to address Hawaii’s teacher shortage by increasing pay for classroom teachers in areas that faced the most severe shortages: special education, Hawaiian language immersion programs and geographically hard-to-staff areas. Tribune-Herald.
Hawaii Announces Aggressive Plan To Take-On Teacher Shortage. The Hawaiʻi Department of Education, with the support of the governor, today introduced a proposal to tackle the state's teacher shortage through pay incentives. Big Island Video News.
Hawai‘i State Department of Education announced its proposal today on its efforts to tackle teacher shortages through increased pay. During a press conference at Central Middle School on O‘ahu, Gov. David Ige spoke about his support to provide extra compensation for teachers in special education, hard-to-staff geographical locations and Hawaiian Language Immersion programs. Big Island Now.
Board of Education teacher increased compensation plan can be found here.
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Former UH regent sues state over ‘gut and replace’ maneuver to downsize board. Jeff Portnoy, in a complaint filed in the U.S. District Court of Hawaii, argues that Act 172 unconstitutionally interferes with the university’s autonomy. Star-Advertiser.
New suit claims lawmakers sought to punish UH by reducing number of regents. Former University of Hawaii Regent Jeff Portnoy blasted state lawmakers over a new law shrinking the size of the UH board, calling it vindictive. Hawaii News Now.
Former UH Regent sues state over reduction in regents. A former University of Hawaii regent sues the state after lawmakers reduce the number of regents. KITV.
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Editorial: It’s Way Past Time For Independent Analysis Of The Cost Of Legislation. Nearly 30 years ago Hawaii passed legislation to create an independent legislative fiscal office, but it’s been ignoring the law. Civil Beat.
Oahu
WWII veterans given special welcome ahead of Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ceremonies. Hawaiian Airlines hosted a special welcome for two World War II veterans Tuesday. KHON2.
USS Arizona survivor Lou Conter gets hero’s welcome as he arrives to mark attack’s anniversary. The men of daring and bravery who 78 years ago defended Oahu and fought through the world war that followed are faithfully returning to remember Pearl Harbor and the lives that were lost or forever altered in the deadliest conflict in history. Star-Advertiser.
Oldest living Filipino WWI vet on Oahu receives Congressional Gold Medal for 100th birthday. Francisco Benigno, Sr. survived the Bataan Death March and was 25 years old when he was honorably discharged. KITV.
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A letter sent out to parents Monday from a Wahiawa elementary school saying a student had the measles was wrong. State Health Department spokeswoman Janice Okubo says there is no new reported case of measles in the islands. Hawaii Public Radio.
A measles scare at an Oahu school turns out to be false. Measles is a highly contagious virus that can cause ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, brain swelling and even death. KITV.
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Health Officials OK With 2045 Deadline For Red Hill But Many Call For Action Sooner. The Hawaii Department of Health gathered public comments Monday on a proposal to require underground fuel storage tanks like those at the U.S. Navy's Red Hill facility to have a secondary containment system or be moved by 2045. Hawaii Public Radio.
Single-use plastic ban bill scheduled for City Council vote Wednesday. Bill 40 CD1, which bans prepared single-use plastics from food vendors, is set to be voted on Wednesday in the Honolulu City Council. KHON2.
Kokua Hawai‘i Foundation plans community green space in Haleiwa Town. Fallow agricultural lands and two adjacent, historic commercial buildings in the heart of Haleiwa town have been acquired by Kokua Hawai‘i Foundation, the nonprofit environmental organization co-founded in 2003 by musician and North Shore native Jack Johnson and his wife, Kim Johnson, a former schoolteacher. Star-Advertiser.
Hawaii Island
Some council members want more info before approving state funds for reimbursing police costs on Maunakea. Despite deep misgivings from some members, a County Council committee on Tuesday recommended the passage of a resolution that would grant the county $10 million in state funds to pay for police enforcement on Maunakea. Tribune-Herald.
New building permit system 3 months out. A multi-agency software system designed to streamline the planning and building permit process has been delayed another three months, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. West Hawaii Today.
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Recently formed lake in Halemaumau Crater the largest in at least 200 years. The greenish-blue, 520-foot long lake that recently formed at the bottom of Halemaumau Crater on Kilauea volcano amounts to the largest body of water inside the crater for at least the past 200 years, and U.S. Geological Survey scientists are keeping a wary eye on both the lake and what is happening below it. Star-Advertiser.
Council Gets Halemaʻumaʻu Crater Lake Presentation. USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologist Matt Patrick gave the Hawaiʻi County Council a presentation today on the Halemaʻumaʻu crater lake at the summit of Kīlauea Volcano. Big Island Video News.
Entrance fees going up at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The current entrance fee of $25 per vehicle will jump to $30 on Jan. 1, 2020. Those entering on motorcycle will need to pay $25, and the cost of pedestrians or bicyclists will be $15. Hawaii News Now.
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Hawaii Island Humane Society appoints new CEO after unexpected resignation. The Hawaii Island Humane Society has a new CEO following the unexpected resignation of Charles Brown after just four months on the job. West Hawaii Today.
Maui
District tax could help fund erosion project. Council committee discusses levy on Kahana Bay owners. Maui News.
Mobile hygiene center open house held on Maui. On Maui, an open house was held Tuesday for the Ka Hale a Ke Ola mobile hygiene unit in the parking lot of the Kihei Community Center. KHON2.
Mayor’s chief of staff leaving post. Deidre Tegarden’s resignation set to take effect Dec. 15. Maui News.
Haleakala National Park Entrance Fees Increase January 1. Haleakala National Park, along with other national parks across America, will increase its entrance fees on Jan. 1. Maui Now.
Mokulele contract for Hana extended to Jan. 31. Makani Kai to take over as Essential Air Service carrier. Maui News.
New battery system installed at island’s HI-5 recycling facilities. HiVE renewable energy storage units are providing safe and reliable backup power. Maui News.
Kauai
State AG to prosecute Brun. The Hawaii Attorney General’s office will be taking over for county prosecutors in the case against a Kauai County Councilmember charged with hitting a police officer with his car while fleeing the scene of a traffic stop a month ago. Garden Island.
You Won’t Need A Car If You Live In This New Urban Village. This former sugar town — Hawaii’s first plantation opened here in 1835 — is about to become the unlikely site of Kauai’s first urban village, a pedestrian friendly, small scale mix of shops, offices, restaurants and apartments. Civil Beat.
Tuesday, November 26, 2019
High tides and coastal flooding expected, Oahu vacation rentals drop amid crackdown, Trump SECNAV pick has Hawaii ties, obsolete radios hamper Kauai sheriffs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands
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Hawaii swimmers with sea turtle ©2019 All Hawaii News |
“Unusually High Water Levels” Prompt Special Weather Statement. The greatest potential for coastal flooding impacts will be during the peak high tides, which will occur before sunrise from Tuesday through Friday, forecasters say. Big Island Video News.
State under threat of coastal flooding this week. Coastal flooding is possible for all shores around the state this week because of unusually high water levels, the National Weather Service said. Star-Advertiser.
Special Weather Statement: Coastal Flooding to Peak During High Tides. The National Weather Service has issued a special weather statement on possible coastal flooding for all islands of Maui County, in effect from Tuesday, Nov. 26 through Friday, Nov. 29, 2019. Maui Now.
Poll: Oahu Voters Want Action On Climate Change. A new survey finds high levels of support for doing things individually and collectively to address the effects of a warming planet. Civil Beat.
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State residents urged to get immunized. State health officials are urging unvaccinated Hawaii residents to get immunized from measles, which is rapidly spreading across the Pacific. Star-Advertiser.
Problems plague costly school A/C, while cheaper program makes headway. A $100 million pledge aimed to cool classrooms statewide. That was just a few years ago, and some of those classrooms are heating up again as the costly systems are breaking down. KHON2.
President’s selection for Navy secretary flew sub-hunting missions out of Barbers Point. The retired rear admiral selected by President Donald Trump to be the next secretary of the Navy started his operational career at Naval Air Station Barbers Point in 1986 flying anti-submarine missions in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean. Star-Advertiser.
Hawaiian Air to re-launch service from Honolulu to Fukuoka. Hawaiian Airlines is bringing back a route discontinued about five years ago. Hawaii News Now.
Oahu
Vacation rentals: Oahu supply dropping amid city crackdown. The number of vacation rentals on Oahu dropped in October, the second month of declines since a city crackdown on illegal rentals took effect. Star-Advertiser.
HECO partners with the Navy for new 80K-panel solar facility at West Loch. Hawaiian Electric and the Navy are celebrating a new solar energy project at Pearl Harbor's West Loch Annex. Hawaii News Now.
Big increase in guns being used for Oahu crimes. There has been a rash of crimes, including violent ones, being committed using firearms. Last year, there were 84 arrests for weapons charges on Oahu, but over the past six months, there were more arrests than all of 2018. KITV.
Hawaii Island
Another Alii development proposal scrapped. The owner and developer of a 50-unit residential community proposed across from Pahoehoe Beach Park on Alii Drive has withdrawn their application for a Special Management Area Use Permit — meaning the lot will likely be preserved for open space. West Hawaii Today.
Hilo Golf Course Worries Over End To County Herbicide Use. Hilo's councilmembers were hoping the municipal golf course would be exempt under the proposed law ending the use of herbicides at county parks. Big Island Video News.
Greenwell Garden purchased. The Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in South Kona has been sold to the local nonprofit that formed three years ago to ensure it remain in Big Island hands.West Hawaii Today.
Bishop Museum Sells Amy B.H. Greenwell Garden To Kona Nonprofit. Ownership of the garden has been transferred to the Kona-based Friends of Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden. Big Island Video News.
Maui
Public Access Expands for Maui Zoning, Real Property Information. Two County of Maui departments have collaborated to make zoning and real property information more readily available to the public. Maui Now.
Kauai
Sheriff’s deputies on Kauai say obsolete radios mean they can’t call for help. The union for sheriff’s deputies on Kauai claims the state is putting them and the public at risk when they transport dangerous prisoners. Hawaii News Now.
KIUC seeks 65-year water lease to energize hydropower facilities. The public is being asked to comment on the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative's plans for its Waiahi hydropower plants. Hawaii News Now.
Wednesday, September 4, 2019
Hot, hot, hot! Former IBEW employee admits to vote-rigging, unpermitted building erected near Thirty Meter Telescope protest camp, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands
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Hawaii beach scene ©2019 All Hawaii News |
U.S. still has edge despite China’s advances, Pacific Air Forces’ head says. Despite a new study saying America has lost its “military primacy” in the Indo- Pacific due to a focus on the Middle East while China advanced its military capability, the head of Pacific Air Forces on Oahu said the United States still has the advantage. Star-Advertiser.
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Cultural Practitioners File Maunakea Petition. Another petition has been filed with the Land Use Commission regarding development on Mauna Kea. Big Island Now.
Mauna Kea activists build illegal structure on lava field. Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim is asking the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to investigate and “take necessary and appropriate action” in connection with an unpermitted wooden building being constructed in a lava field near the Mauna Kea protest camp. Star-Advertiser.
State, not protesters, could face fines for unpermitted structure at Mauna Kea. Mayor Harry Kim told Hawaii News Now the county doesn’t know who built it so the property owner, the Department of Hawaiian Homelands, is responsible and could be fined more than $1,000 per day. Hawaii News Now.
DHHL Says It Will Remove Structure Near Puuhuluhulu When Resources Are Available. A building that has been erected on the lava field near Puuhuluhulu in the midst of the ongoing standoff over the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea has gotten the government's attention. Big Island Video News.
TMT protesters told ‘library’ under construction is unpermitted; protest leaders fear state plans to clear blockade in next 30 days. Tribune-Herald.
Protesters allege the state intends to send Hawaii National Guard troops to Mauna Kea. The activists blocking Mauna Kea Access Road announced Tuesday “there has been word” that the state will use Hawaii National Guard troops and out-of-state law enforcement officers in the next 30 days to clear the way for construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope to begin. Star-Advertiser.
Costs keep rising; County has now spent more than $3.6 million on TMT-related expenses. The standoff at Maunakea Access Road has now cost the county more than $3.6 million. Tribune-Herald.
Liliuokalani's Peaceful Approach To Foreign Aggression Set Stage for Kapu Aloha. The words kapu aloha have emerged in the ongoing conflict over Mauna Kea. Hawaii Public Radio.
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State health officials confirmed Tuesday that there was one case of measles reported in a Hawaii resident who got sick while traveling in another state. Officials did not provide any other details such as where or when that resident contracted the highly-infectious disease. Hawaii News Now.
New law to ease Albizia anxiety. Albizia trees create beautiful canopies across Hawaii’s scenery — but the introduced species is responsible for millions and millions of dollars in damage. KHON2.
To offset Hawaii’s carbon emissions, group seeks to plant 1M trees a year (with your help). The group behind an ambitious plan to offset all of the state’s carbon emissions by planting one million trees a year in the islands is asking for your financial support. Hawaii News Now.
University of Hawaii project aims to plant 11,000 trees to offset state’s carbon emissions. The University of Hawaii at Manoa is upping the ante for its Carbon Neutrality Challenge — an effort to offset the state’s carbon emissions — by planting a record number of trees next month. Star-Advertiser.
Hawaiian Airlines Stock Slumping Amid Fears Of Competition. Southwest is bringing lower fares to Hawaii and new restrictions on Airbnbs are also creating uncertainty about future traffic. Civil Beat.
Oahu
Rail spokesman pleads guilty to conspiracy charge linked to his time at union. Russell Yamanoha, a former sportcaster who now serves as spokesman for the rail authority, pleaded guilty Tuesday in federal court to a misdemeanor conspiracy charge linked to his time at an embattled Hawaii union. Hawaii News Now.
Former television sports anchor and current HART spokesman Russell Yamanoha pleaded guilty Tuesday in U.S. District Court to conspiring to rig a union election when he was an IBEW Local 1260 official. Star-Advertiser.
Former Sportscaster and Lahainaluna Graduate Accepts Plea Bargain in Federal Conspiracy Case. Maui Now.
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Push to impeach Kaneshiro continues as he collects taxpayer-funded salary while on leave. Keith Kaneshiro is still being paid his taxpayer-funded salary: $177,000 a year while on leave. He even got a raise in July. Hawaii News Now.
Race to replace Kaneshiro as prosecutor takes shape. With the Honolulu prosecutor’s office in legal turmoil, the race to take over for Keith Kaneshiro is beginning to take shape. KHON2.
Attorney Megan Kau Announces Run For Honolulu Prosecutor. Former Prosecuting Attorney Peter Carlisle, who introduced Kau at her Tuesday press conference, said he is no longer considering running for his old office. Civil Beat.
Former Deputy Prosecutor Megan Kau says she is running for Honolulu city prosecutor in 2020. Kau is the first person to publicly announce an intention to run for Honolulu city prosecutor in the next election. Star-Advertiser.
Hawaii Island
Council seeks amendments to energy code. Concerns about the impact of a strict new energy code on the cost of housing had the County Council on Tuesday vowing to look at ways to minimize costs on the Big Island. West Hawaii Today.
Waimea’s Future Topic Of Town Meeting, Sept. 5. This week, Waimea will meet to talk about what the community wants it to be like in 10, 15, and 25 years, in an effort to help map the island's future. Big Island Video News.
Maui
Maui Crime Stoppers Offering Up to $1,000 for Information Regarding Recent Fires. Maui Now.
Imua’s Kokua Outreach to help residents sign up for health insurance. Uninsured and the underinsured are program’s focus. Maui News.
Kauai
Visitors try to bribe their way into Haena State Park. A new system for entry to Kauai’s popular Ha‘ena State Park requires visitors to purchase tickets online in advance and limits visitation to 900 people a day, down from an estimated 3,000 daily before flooding closed the road leading to the park in April 2018. Star-Advertiser.
Abandoned vehicles costing taxpayers. Broken down, picked apart vehicles left on the side of the road and other inconspicuous places around the island are an epidemic. Garden Island.
Molokai
Why Molokai Is The Least Developed Hawaiian Island. Even centuries before Captain Cook’s arrival, its resources were exploited by outsiders. Civil Beat.