Hawaiʻi County has completed the purchase of Honolulu Landing, a 364-acre parcel on the Puna coast first identified for preservation 20 years ago.

The $3.7 million acquisition occurred through the County’s Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission (PONC) program. The property, recently listed for sale, was recommended for purchase in the first PONC report completed in 2006.

The acquisition marks the Alameda administration’s fourth PONC purchase in the last 18 months and follows a successful County Council resolution advanced by Council member Ashley Kierkiewicz.

According to the resolution, the property is located between the old coastal village of Waiakahiʻula and the Nānāwale Forest Reserve. A 2004 survey at Honolulu Landing documented ancient burial sites, village complexes, heiau, house platforms, rock walls, ahu and planting areas at the property. Natural resources include freshwater springs, groves of hala, kukui and hau trees, and habitats for endangered native species such as the ʻio (Hawaiian hawk), ʻōpeʻapeʻa (Hawaiian hoary bat), and pueo (Hawaiian owl).

Funding for PONC is supported by an annual 2% contribution from the County’s property tax revenues.

Under PONC, the County may acquire properties to preserve historically or culturally important sites, protect natural resources, and provide opportunities for public outdoor recreation and education, including access to beaches and mountains.

Properties are nominated each year by the public, reviewed and ranked by the Commission, and recommended by the Mayor. Purchases require a willing seller and authorization by the County Council.

Photo credit: Office of Mayor Kimo Alameda