Hawaii County has scheduled a public hearing to discuss proposed revisions to rules for the Panaewa Recreational Complex at 5 p.m. June 3 at the Aging and Disability Resource Center at 1055 Kinoole Street.
Following a public hearing in November 2024, changes were made to the initial proposed rule changes that included an admission fee structure for Panaewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens and an updated fee schedule for the Panaewa Equestrian Center. The changes include adjusting the zoo fee structure to waive admission fees for keiki and kupuna who are county residents. In addition, an annual pass will be available.
“One of my first actions as mayor was to suspend the previous zoo admission fee proposal because it needed to be fairer for residents,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda in a release. “After several months of review, we believe this new proposal will keep the zoo affordable for families and people of all ages, from keiki to kūpuna, while ensuring that non-resident guests also contribute.
“Importantly, the revenue from these fees opens the possibility for new projects, exhibits and programs that enhance the zoo and ensure it remains a vibrant community space where residents create lifelong memories,” Alameda said.
Panaewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens, the nation’s only zoo located within a tropical rainforest, is home to 82 species and nearly 300 animals, and features a playground, pavilions, a petting zoo and gift shop.
Proposed Zoo Fee Structure (effective July 1):
County Residents
- Adult (18 to 59): $4
- Kūpuna (60-plus): Free
- Keiki (under 18): Free
Non-County Residents
- Adult (18-plus): $12
- Keiki (3 to 17): $5
- Keiki (0 to 2): Free
Annual Pass
- $25 per individual
In addition to the zoo fees, Panaewa Equestrian Center also has a new fee schedule being proposed with annual increases. Open daily for public use, the center has a 5/8-mile racetrack, rodeo arena, eventing and dressage area, wash racks and rental stalls with attached paddocks.
The public hearing scheduled for June 3 is an opportunity for members of the public to submit data, views, or arguments either orally or in writing to the Department of Parks and Recreation to consider prior to adopting the proposed rule changes.
Submit all written comments to the Department of Parks and Recreation Administration Office at 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 6, Hilo, Hawaii 96720, no later than May 29. Written testimony received by May 29 will be included in the record of the hearing.
The public can also attend the hearing on June 3 via Zoom.
