The change in zoning from "agricultural" to "West Maui Project District 2" allows a mix of 690 homes and condominiums, five acres of commercial development and up to 27 holes of golf.

"Kapalua Mauka is vital to the re-positioning efforts of our resort operations," said David C. Cole, Chairman, President and CEO of ML&P. "This project enables us to achieve sufficient scale to support a larger scope of amenities and visitor services throughout the Kapalua Resort, which in turn enhances our competitive position at the pinnacle of the hospitality industry."

The community will include a mix of luxury home sites, villas and condominium properties in the midst of extensive open space, parks, trails, golf, a mountain adventure center and clubhouse amenities. Several villages will be sited to maximize open space and view corridors to the West Maui Mountains and the islands of Moloka'i and Lana'i. Sales are anticipated to commence in 2007 with complete development of the community estimated to take approximately 10 to 15 years.

Matson starts China-Long Beach service

Matson Navigation Co. officially launched its new China-Long Beach Express today with the departure of the MV Manulani from Shanghai.

The new weekly calls by Matson vessels in Ningbo and Shanghai will provide customers with express service from China to Long Beach. The 11-day transit time from Shanghai to Long Beach is one of the fastest in the trans-Pacific trade.

The start up marks Matson's entry into the China market, expanding its reach in the Pacific, which it has been serving since 1882. Matson's five most modern, fuel-efficient vessels will be deployed in the service, including four new containerships built in the past four years.