March Storms Devastate Oahu Farms, Could Reduce Local Food Supply
Severe flooding in March caused an estimated $50 million in damage to nearly 2,000 Hawaii farms, destroying crops and equipment across Oahu’s North Shore agricultural areas. Back-to-back March storms brought Hawaii’s worst flooding in 20 years, wiping out entire farms just weeks before harvest. Nearly 2,000 farms sustained damage with losses estimated at $50 million […]
State Urges Property Owners to Check Insurance Before Hurricane Season
Hawaii’s Insurance Division recommends property owners review their coverage before June 1 hurricane season begins, as El Niño conditions may increase storm activity. Standard homeowners policies typically don’t cover hurricane or flood damage. Hurricane season begins June 1 with El Niño conditions potentially increasing Pacific storm activity. Standard homeowners and rental property insurance policies do […]
Tourist Entry Fees and Higher Taxes Roll Out Globally in 2026
Major destinations including Kyoto, Venice, and France are implementing new tourist taxes and entry fees in 2026, ranging from modest daily charges to significant accommodation surcharges. These fees aim to manage overtourism and generate revenue from visitors. Kyoto raised tourist taxes significantly with nightly charges from $1-66 depending on accommodation cost, hitting luxury properties hardest. […]
Survey Shows Property Maintenance Stress Affects Most Homeowners’ Mental Health
A new study finds 84% of homeowners experience anxiety from property maintenance and costs, though 97% still consider homeownership worthwhile. Many defer expensive repairs including plumbing, roofing, and electrical work. 84% of homeowners report that property-related stress impacts their quality of life, with some losing sleep or experiencing worsened mental health. 69% of homeowners are […]
MPD Expands Crisis Response Training to Include Resort and Business Staff
Maui Police trained 21 new Crisis Intervention Team members, including staff from Wailea Beach Resort-Marriott and other local businesses, to improve responses to mental health emergencies. The 40-hour certification program teaches de-escalation techniques for mental health and emotional crises. Training participants included police, county staff, and employees from Wailea Beach Resort-Marriott and Wailuku Federal Credit […]
New Economic Analysis Shows Hawaii Facing Income and Growth Challenges
A recent economic report reveals Hawaii is struggling with flat wage growth and declining productivity compared to other states. These trends could impact both local residents’ purchasing power and the overall visitor experience on Maui. Hawaii residents are experiencing stagnant income growth while living costs continue to rise, putting pressure on local families and workers […]
Rising Living Expenses Drive Maui Residents Toward Additional Income Sources
As the cost of living continues to climb in Hawaii, more Maui locals are embracing side businesses and alternative income streams to make ends meet. This trend reflects the ongoing economic challenges facing island residents in one of the nation’s most expensive markets. Maui residents are increasingly pursuing side hustles like vacation rental hosting, tour […]
Major $160M Medical and Housing Development Coming to Maui
Hale Makua announces a transformative $160 million project that will combine expanded healthcare facilities with much-needed housing units on Maui. This major development aims to address both the island’s healthcare capacity and housing shortage challenges. The project will significantly expand medical services available to both residents and visitors on Maui New housing units will help […]
Lahaina’s Historic Banyan Tree Recovery Efforts Continue as Community Symbol Remains Critical
The iconic Banyan Tree in Lahaina continues to receive intensive care and monitoring as restoration specialists work to save this beloved historic landmark. Recovery progress remains uncertain, but dedicated efforts are ongoing to preserve this significant cultural and tourist attraction. The 150-year-old Banyan Tree remains in critical condition requiring specialized arborist care and intensive monitoring […]
New Economic Study Highlights Hawaii’s Cost of Living Challenges Despite Tourism Recovery
A recent University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization (UHERO) analysis reveals that when adjusted for local pricing, Hawaii’s economic performance ranks among the poorest nationally. The study underscores ongoing affordability concerns for residents while tourism continues to drive the islands’ economy. UHERO’s price-adjusted economic analysis places Hawaii near the bottom of state economic rankings nationwide […]