656 acres of the former Kahuku Ranch near Nā‘ālehu, Ka‘ū.
Kamehameha Schools has acquired 656 acres of the former Kahuku Ranch near Nā‘ālehu, Ka‘ū, an investment that consolidates ownership of area lands that include adjacent KS legacy lands and also provides for potential future agriculture or community education presence in the rural district along the southern tip of Hawai‘i island.
The purchase includes multiple structures such as a central lodge, seven ranch homes, a ranch office, corral, scale house, fenced pastures, storage facilities, covered base yard, and paved roads.
The property abuts KS lands at Waiʻahukini and provides access to a large swath of KS’ Pākini ahupuaʻa. Additionally, this large property also has highway frontage and access to unique ma uka and ma kai cultural and natural landscapes.
“Through responsible stewardship of ‘āina, we support vibrant, resilient communities where keiki learn and thrive,” said Jamee Miller, director of KS’ ‘Āina Ulu, which works with KS ʻāina tenants and partners on impactful outcomes that contribute to community resiliency. “Through planning and collaboration with the community, there is an opportunity to link educational, economic and community resources while forging strong partner networks and relationships.”
The ranch could also support agricultural and food systems activities such as securing a lessee to raise livestock or grow fruit trees.
KS’ immediate focus is on properly securing and stewarding the ‘āina and facilities. While there are no set long-term plans, KS will be carefully assessing all options to create positive resilient community impact.
Update: According to the West Hawaii Today, the property was purchased for “$7 million, according to the Hawaii Life Real Estate website. The sale was made by J. Douglas Beaton, a Hawaii Life agent.”