Economic Forecast Shows Tourism Slowdown and Rising Costs for Hawaii
A new University of Hawaii economic forecast warns that global conflicts, oil price increases, and recent storm damage are slowing Hawaii’s economy and reducing visitor arrivals. Tourism growth is expected to drop sharply in 2027 after modest gains this year. Visitor arrivals projected to grow only 2% in 2026 before declining sharply in 2027 due […]
Ritz-Carlton Kapalua Announces Celebrity Chef Events This Summer
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua will host exclusive dining events featuring Michelin-starred and celebrity chefs from June through August. The summer series includes four-course meals with wine pairings at the resort’s Banyan Tree restaurant. June 13 event features Michelin-starred chef Andrew Yeo presenting Chinese-Indian cuisine with Spence Vineyards wines. July 11 dinner showcases James Beard semi-finalist […]
New Premium Jeep Rental Service Launches on Maui for Adventure Tourism
BEXT Premium Jeep Rental has launched a new service offering high-end Jeep Wrangler and Wagoneer rentals with island-wide delivery for Maui visitors. The company provides mobile booking, full insurance, and travel accessories to support independent island exploration. New premium Jeep rental company targets growing tourism demand with 4×4 vehicles for adventure travelers. Service includes island-wide […]
Heavy Rain and Flooding Risk Expected on Maui Through Weekend
Strong trade winds are bringing heavy rain and potential flooding to Maui through the weekend, with conditions expected to improve by Sunday evening. Flood Watch in effect for Maui County with risk of rapid flooding from heavy downpours. Unstable weather system could produce thunderstorms through Saturday. Small Craft Advisory issued for Maui waters through early […]
Maui Resident Loses $600 to Storm Repair Scammer, Others Warned
A Kihei woman was conned out of $600 by a fraudulent contractor who advertised storm repair services on Nextdoor then disappeared. Local nonprofits report similar scams are common and urge residents to only work with trusted organizations. A 67-year-old Kihei resident paid $600 upfront to a contractor she found on Nextdoor who then vanished without […]
Wildfire Survivors Face Ongoing Mental Health Crisis Three Years Later
Mental health challenges persist for Maui wildfire survivors nearly three years after the disaster, with economic instability and housing issues worsening psychological recovery. Provider shortages and recent storms have further complicated healing efforts. Mental health professionals report survivors still experiencing trauma, grief, and instability nearly three years after the August 2023 fires. Economic stress from […]
Wildfire Settlement Payouts Begin This Year But Won’t Fully Cover Losses
Maui fire survivors will receive their first settlement payments in 2026, with $550 million distributed this year from the $4 billion settlement. Economists warn the payments won’t fully compensate families for their losses, especially with rising costs. Settlement payments will boost Maui County personal income by 5.4% in 2026, the largest gain of any county. […]
Maui County Council Elections May Shift Policy Direction This Fall
Upcoming Maui County Council elections could create a progressive majority as conservative members step down and competitive races emerge. The results may influence post-wildfire recovery policies, housing decisions, and development regulations. Two conservative council members are not seeking reelection, creating opportunities for progressive candidates to gain control. Elections are viewed as a referendum on local […]
Whitehorse Implements Staged Restrictions on Short-Term Rental Properties
Whitehorse City Council approved new regulations limiting short-term rentals in residential areas, with restrictions on non-resident operators taking effect in October 2027. Current operators can continue under a grandfather clause if they comply with city regulations. New short-term rental operators will be prohibited from renting residential properties that aren’t their primary residence starting October 1, […]
Hawaii Bans Corporate Political Spending Starting July 2027
Governor Green signed a new law prohibiting corporations and LLCs from spending money on political campaigns or ballot measures. The law takes effect July 1, 2027 and applies to all business entities organized under Hawaii law. Act 011 bans corporations, LLCs, and other business entities from spending on elections or ballot measures starting July 2027. […]