Following the recent storms that brought flooding to parts of the Hawai’i, the historic town of Haleʻiwa, is moving forward as shops and restaurants reopen – and visitors are being welcomed back, says state tourism officials.
Hale‘iwa felt the effects of floodwaters as the recent kona low storms brought record rainfall in a matter of days. Now, the vast majority of its businesses reopened, state officials report and Governor Josh Green said is encouraging visitors to keep their travel plans to Hawaiʻi.
All airports and most accommodations, restaurants and visitor attractions across the state are operating as usual.
“Across Hawaiʻi, we have seen an outpouring of love, support and aloha for the families and communities affected by these storms. That care for one another is one of the things that makes Hawaiʻi so special. As recovery continues, we want visitors to know that Hawaiʻi continues to welcome them with open arms, and we encourage them to keep their travel plans. When people choose to visit, they support local jobs, local businesses and communities working hard to recover,” said Green.
State Representative Sean Quinlan, who represents the North Shore, said the community’s resilience has been evident throughout the recovery.
“The North Shore is a resilient community, and the people of Haleʻiwa have shown that strength every single day throughout this recovery. Our businesses are reopening, our community is coming together and we welcome visitors to be part of that experience – whether that means volunteering, shopping local or stopping in to support a small business. We’re grateful for the care and generosity people have shown and that support continues to make a real difference,” said Quinlan.
Caroline Anderson, interim president and CEO of the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority, said the moment calls for visitors to choose Hawai‘i with intention and that Hale‘iwa’s reopening gives them every reason to do so.
“Many of these businesses are family-run, deeply rooted in the community and counting on visitor support right now. Choosing to visit is one of the most meaningful things people can do to help these communities recover. As visitors make their way to the North Shore, they will once again be able to experience the town, its businesses and the spirit that makes this community so special,” said Anderson.
While progress is underway, recovery continues in some areas. Residential areas of Waialua and Mokulē‘ia continue to recover, and visitors are asked to respect posted signage and be mindful of what residents in those communities are experiencing.
For those who want to be part of the recovery in a more direct way, volunteer opportunities are available through community organizations supporting North Shore efforts. Visit gohawaii.com/kona-low-alert for more information.
For the latest visitor guidance, conditions, volunteer opportunities and updates, visit gohawaii.com/kona-low-alert.
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