AT&T to distribute Wi-Fi hotspots to eligible lessees on Hawaiian Home Lands in Waimea

The Department of Hawaiian Homes Lands will be distributing AT&T Wi-Fi hotspots to eligible Puʻukapu pastoral lessees in Waimea this week, ensuring reliable broadband service for those in the area.

The distribution comes on the heels of the announced shutdown of Sandwich Isles Communications, a private company that provided internet and phone service to more than 1,500 Hawaiian Homelands statewide.

The company sent an email to customers on May 30 announcing it would be ending its service starting June 1. The Sandwich Isles Communications is facing foreclosure by the federal government due to nonpayment of a major loan.

Hotspot distribution will take place at the DHHL Waimea District Office located at 64-756 Māmalahoa Highway. Distribution dates and times are as follows:

Tuesday, June 4: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wednesday, June 5: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Thursday, June 6: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

To receive a hotspot, individuals must be current SIC broadband customers who have been without service since April 2024. Hotspots will be issued one per lessee. Each hotspot includes one month of unlimited Wi-Fi prepaid by DHHL.

“Reliable access to phone and internet service is a critical lifeline for our Puʻukapu lessees,” said DHHL Broadband Coordinator Jaren Tengan. “Our goal is to provide SIC customers with an interim solution as they transition to an alternate provider.”

Most Puʻukapu lessees are outside the service areas for both Hawaiian Telcom and Spectrum. Fiber optic service is planned for the Puʻukapu area in 2025.

DHHL will continue posting updates and information at dhhl.hawaii.gov/broadband/. Those needing further assistance can also reach the department at dhhl.broadband@hawaii.gov or 808-570-4883.