Posted at 10:45 a.m., Wednesday, June 20, 2001

Bill would expand Pu'uhonua park

Advertiser Staff

KAILUA-KONA, Hawai'i — U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka has introduced a bill that would more than double the size of Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park in South Kona.

The bill would add 238 acres bordering the southern and mauka ends of the 182-acre park, which marks a refuge in ancient Hawai'i to avoid death for breaking the kapu laws.

Akaka said the parcel features one of the most complete known examples of the mahina'ai (Hawaiian farming) field system in Kona, as well as sites of religious and ceremonial activities.

Expansion of the 40-year-old historical park on the site of the old Hawaiian village of Kiilae has been under consideration for decades.

Big Island officials say the land being sought is part of roughly 800-acre parcel slated for a subdivision by CMI Development Inc. of Maui. The developer is in talks with the National Park Service over the sale of the 238 acres.