Mauna kea Hotel 2006 Closure

The luxurious Mauna Kea Beach Hotel on the Big Island of Hawaii was closed December 1, 2006 for an indefinite period of time, due to serious damage caused by the October 15, 2006 earthquake. See also Big Island Travel Guide and our guides Other Hawaiian Islands.

Prince Resorts Hawaii Announcement

December 1, 2006

It is with a heavy heart that we have made the decision to commence closing the Mauna kea Beach Hotel to employees and guests for an indefinite period of time, beginning Friday, December 1, 2006. The decision was based upon an engineering consultant's report that identified new structural damage resulting from the Big Island's October 15, 2006 earthquake.

After removing portions of the building interior a team of consulting engineers retained by the hotel discovered unexpected damage to the lateral bracing system in sections of the roof in the Main Building. The consultant's report categorized the condition as a significant safety hazard that should be addressed as soon as possible.

There is nothing more important to us then the safety of our guests and employees, and after reviewing our consultant's report, we immediately decided to close the hotel. The hazard is not necessarily imminent but does pose an unacceptable risk, especially in light on on-going seismic activity of the past few weeks.

This is an "Act of God" situation that we have no control over. Nonetheless we regret the hardship it is causing our employees and the inconvenience to our guests. our initial assessment is that it will take many months to repair and restore the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel to its original luster and prominence.

The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel will not accept any new reservations and current guests will transition off the property by close of Saturday, December 2, to the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel.

Guests holding future bookings are being contacted and every effort is being made to find them alternate hotel accommodations through the holiday season.

Plans are being drawn up for the orderly layoff of most of the hotel's 420 employees with the exception of those deemed essential to the hotel while it is closed and under repair. In deference to the holiday season, layoffs will not take effect until early in 2007.

The Mauna Kea Golf Course and clubhouse will remain open.

We have already spoken with representatives of ILWU are in the process of consulting with federal, state, and county agencies to marshal their expertise and resources to best assist our employees and their families during this difficult time. We will also work closely with other hotels to find employment for our displaced employees.

We appreciate your consideration and understanding of this difficult situation. We look forward to the time when we're re-opened and back better then ever!

Aloha,

Donn Takahashi, President
Prince Resorts Hawaii
December 1, 2006

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