West Hawai‘i News

Six Coffee With a Cop outreach events set for West Hawaiʻi this month

Get to know your community police officers at six “Coffee With a Cop” events in Kailua-Kona, Hōlualoa, Waimea and Kealakekua.

Federal assistance available for Hawaiʻi County residents impacted by Kona earthquake

Hawai’i County residents recovering from the Kona earthquake can apply for federal disaster assistance until Nov. 1.

Brown water advisory issued for West Hawai‘i coast

Public advised to stay out of coastal waters that appear brown and murky because of possible runoff that might be in the water containing pesticides and other chemicals, animal fecal matter, dead animals, pathogens and debris.

Community resource centers, online applications available to people impacted by Kona earthquake

Vibrant Hawaiʻi social service navigators at the centers will provide in-person assistance with applications and help residents navigate available disaster recovery resources.

2 charged in connection with string of Kona car break-ins

Reid Pangelinan of Waimea and Jacqueline Barnes-Carrick of Kailua-Kona, both 35 years old, face slew of charges, including first-degree unauthorized entry of a motor vehicle, second-degree theft and third-degree criminal property damage, following 5 vehicle break-ins reported during August.

Get your tickets now for 40th annual Hawaiʻi Kūpuna Hula Festival

Come help the festival commemorate four decades of kūpuna hula Sept. 9-10 on Keauhou Bay while you cherish a moment of Hawai‘i woven into a lei — and time.

Top 10-plus things to do on Big Island for Aug. 28-Sept. 3: ‘DUKE,’ ‘SIX The Musical,’ Made for Hawaiʻi Market, Maoli Live and more

After more than 2 weeks of the weather being anything but cooperative, downright devastating at times for some locations, we’re crossing our fingers, toes and every other appendage possible that the island will finally get a much needed break; the chances right now look better than promising.

Hawaiʻi police officers seek to engage with seniors during Kūpuna Watch meetings this week

Two Kūpuna Watch meetings will provide opportunities for officers to engage with kūpuna in Waimea and Hōlualoa this week.

Top 10 things to do on Big Island for Aug. 21-27: Plenty to do, but once again the weather could get in the way

It’s a smorgasbord of fun planned for everyone at events and activities around the island; unfortunately, another possible tropical cyclone could be headed our way, becoming the second most unwanted guest to the islands as early as this weekend.

UPDATE: Teen last seen in September 2025 located in good health

Now-17-year-old Naiomi Michael, who previously was reported as a runaway, was found July 10 in Pāhoa.

Charter school secures permanent Kona roots with purchase of West Hawai‘i Today building

Hawaiʻi Technology Academy solidifies its presence in the Kona community with the $7.4 million purchase of the West Hawaiʻi Today building, promising to expand its innovative educational programs by 2028.

Zephyr Insurance to open claim assistance center on Big Island

Policyholders are encouraged to reserve a time in advance; walk-ins will be assisted on a first-come, first-served basis as time permits.

Young Brothers plans modified cargo acceptance, availability at Port of Kawaihae

Several changes are scheduled throughout August at the West Hawai‘i port, beginning this week, as the shipping company works ‘to keep the marine highway running smoothly for all communities’ it serves.

Arkansas man charged with sexual assault for 2 incidents in West Hawai’i

64-year-old Timothy Efird of Hot Springs, Ark., is charged with first-degree and second-degree sexual assault in connection with two separate incidents reportedly involving the same woman.

Police charge Kona woman in connection with reported robbery at knifepoint

33-year-old Krystal Hernandez is charged with first-degree robbery and second-degree promoting a detrimental drug following an incident Aug. 7 near the 75-5500 block of Kuakini Highway in Kailua-Kona.

Hawaiʻi County to host free household hazardous waste collection events

Hawai‘i County Department of Environmental Management hosts these regular collection events at no charge to the public, allowing households to conveniently dispose of acceptable waste in a manner that protects public health and the environment.

Konawaena High campus ready to welcome students back for new school year

“We have a safe, healthy place that we get to welcome everybody back to, and we have a new place, so it’s going to make new memories … ,” said the West Hawai‘i school’s Principal Ami Akeo, speaking about the campus’ state following repairs after damage caused by the March kona low storms.

Top bartenders to compete during 4th annual Kuleana Rum Works Cocktail Classic

The friendly competition’s goal is to bring the cocktail community together and showcase what island bartenders can do while creating a space where they can show off their creativity and all-around professionalism.

Kona man arrested, charged with harassment, resisting arrest after trying to provoke fight

44-year-old Matthew Larrua made his initial court appearance July 29 in Kona District Court; the charges stem from an incident the afternoon of July 28 at a business on Aliʻi Drive in Kailua-Kona.

Hawaiʻi congressional delegation urge approval for disaster declaration request

The congressional delegation has asked President Donald Trump to expedite Gov. Josh Green’s request for a presidential disaster declaration following a 6.0 earthquake on Hawaiʻi Island.
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