The Hawai‘i County Department of Parks and Recreation is adopting rule amendments for the Pana‘ewa Recreational Complex that includes the introduction of admission fees to the Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens.

The revised “Rule 3 – Relating to the Pana‘ewa Recreational Complex” addresses the use and management of both the Pana‘ewa Equestrian Center and the zoo. The revised rules will take effect July 1, except for the introduction of admission fees at the zoo, which start Aug. 1.

The implementation of the updated rules follows two public hearings held in November 2024 and June 2025. After Mayor Kimo Alameda took office in December 2024, the new rules were suspended to allow the proposed fee structure for the zoo to be revised based on community feedback.

Changes to the zoo fee schedule include waiving admission fees for keiki and kupuna who are County residents. In addition, an annual pass will be available for adult residents.

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

 

Zoo Fee Structure to be Implemented Beginning Aug. 1  

County Residents

Adult (18-59): $4

Kupuna (60 and Older): Free

Keiki (17 and Younger): Free

Annual Pass

$25 per individual

Non-County Residents

Adult (18 and Older): $12

Keiki (3-17): $5

Keiki (0-2): Free

 

Photo credit: Hawaiʻi County Mayor’s Office