Hawaii County Asks Public: Should There Be an Admission Fee for the Zoo?

HILO (Hawaii News Now) - The Hawaii County administration seeks public input on a plan to introduce an entry fee for the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens.

The updated proposal states that keiki and kupuna who are county residents will remain free of charge, whereas adult residents would have to pay $4.

Residents from outside the county would similarly face an admission charge as outlined below:

• Individuals aged 18 and up: $12
• Keiki between 3-17: $5
• Keiki between 0-2: Free

The modifications were delayed until last December after a public meeting was held.

One of my initial acts as mayor was to halt the former plan for zoo admissions fees since it had to be more equitable for our residents," stated Mayor Kimo Alameda. "Following several months of evaluation, we feel confident that this revised proposal will maintain affordability at the zoo for families and individuals across all age groups, from children to elders, while also making sure that visitors who aren’t local residents make their contribution.

The county is proposing a revised fee structure for the Panaewa Equestrian Center, which includes annual increments over time.

A public meeting about the modifications is set for June 3 at 5 p.m. at the Aging and Disability Resource Center in Hilo.

The Panaewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens houses 82 different types of creatures along with approximately 300 animals within a vibrant rainforest setting.