Public Hearing Scheduled for Panaʻewa Recreational Complex Rule Changes New Zoo Admission Fee Structure Proposed

Public Hearing Scheduled for
Panaʻewa Recreational Complex Rule Changes
New Zoo Admission Fee Structure Proposed

The County of Hawaiʻi will hold a public hearing on proposed revisions to rules for the Pana‘ewa Recreational Complex at 5 p.m. June 3 at the Aging and Disability Resource Center, 1055 Kinoʻole St.

The rule changes include the introduction of an admission fee structure for the Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens and an updated fee schedule for the Panaʻewa Equestrian Center.

The proposed rule changes were postponed in December 2024 following a public hearing in late November 2024. Changes to the previous proposal 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 for individuals.

“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. “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 kupuna, while ensuring that non-resident guests also contribute.”

Mayor Alameda continued, “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.”

The Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens is home to 82 species and nearly 300 animals in a lush rainforest environment. The only zoo in the United States located in a tropical rainforest, it is a vital recreational and educational resource for local residents and visitors. In addition to exotic and native plants and animals, the zoo also features special amenities such as a playground, pavilions, a petting zoo, a gift shop and more.

Proposed Zoo Fee Structure (Effective July 1)

County Residents
Adult (18-59): $4
Kupuna (60+): Free
Keiki (Under 18): Free

Non-County Residents
Adult (18+): $12
Keiki (3-17): $5
Keiki (0-2): Free

Annual Pass
$25 per individual

In addition to the zoo fees, a new fee schedule for the Pana‘ewa Equestrian Center is also being proposed, with fee increases phased in annually.

The Pana‘ewa Equestrian Center includes equestrian-related facilities, such as a 5/8-mile race track, eventing and dressage areas, rodeo arena, wash racks, and rental stalls with attached paddocks. The center is open for public use seven days a week.

Public Hearing Details

The purpose of the public hearing is to afford all persons the opportunity to submit data, views, or arguments, orally or in writing, to the Department of Parks and Recreation for its consideration prior to the adoption of the proposed rule changes.

All written comments should be filed with the Department of Parks and Recreation Administration Office at 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 6, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720, no later than May 29. Written testimony received by May 29 will be included in the record of the hearing.

To join the public hearing by Zoom, use the following link and meeting ID:

https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1616958546
Meeting ID: 161 695 8546

View the Public Notice: https://www.parks.hawaiicounty.gov/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/5939/1923.

View the proposed rule changes: https://records.hawaiicounty.gov/weblink/1/doc/148244/Page1.aspx.

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