Hawaiian Council Takes the Helm: Revolutionizing Sea Life Park's Future

Waimanalo, Hawaii - In a historic milestone, the Hawaiian Council announced the completion of its acquisition of Sea Life Park Hawaii, marking the first time the 62-year-old attraction has been under Native Hawaiian stewardship. The private transaction, which closed on August 11, saw the Hawaiian Council purchase the park from Herschend Family Entertainment, with financial terms remaining undisclosed. As the new owners take the reins, the park will continue daily operations without interruption, ensuring a seamless experience for visitors, employees, and the local community.

Despite the change in ownership, existing reservations, memberships, and annual passes will be honored, and staff layoffs are not planned. To facilitate a smooth transition, the Hawaiian Council has brought on Valerie King, a former general manager of the park, to assist with the process. King's extensive knowledge and experience will be invaluable in ensuring continuity and minimizing disruption to the park's day-to-day operations.

However, the Hawaiian Council is not content with mere continuity. Rather, the new owners envision a transformation of Sea Life Park, shifting its focus towards Native Hawaiian culture, marine science, and education. This ambitious vision is driven by the council's desire to share the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii with both locals and visitors. By doing so, the park will not only become a premier educational hub but also a revered cultural institution that honors the land, its people, and their traditions.

'For generations, Sea Life Park has helped people discover the beauty of Hawai'i's marine life,' said Kōhiō Lewis, CEO of the Hawaiian Council. 'Our opportunity now is to help people understand something deeper – that these animals have always been part of Hawai'i's story.' Lewis emphasizes that under Native Hawaiian stewardship, Sea Life Park can become a place where kama'āina (people of the land) reconnect with their relationships and visitors experience Hawaii through the voices and values of the people who have cared for these islands for generations.

Located on state-owned land overseen by the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), Sea Life Park will continue operating under the existing lease agreement. Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) currently holds the master lease, and the Hawaiian Council expects to work closely with HPU and state agencies on future educational and research programs. The park's animal care staff will remain in place, ensuring standard veterinary care and husbandry for the park's marine life.

The immediate plans for the park include landscaping upgrades featuring native plants, expanded cultural storytelling, and updated educational programming. The new owners also intend to evaluate opportunities for expanded school partnerships and increased community access. By doing so, Sea Life Park will become an integral part of the local community, fostering a deeper appreciation for Hawaii's unique culture and natural environment.

In a statement, Eric Rose, Senior Vice President of Zoological Advancement at Herschend, noted, 'As we considered its future, it was important to identify an owner who understood that responsibility. We believe Hawaiian Council is well positioned to guide Sea Life Park's next chapter with care, continuity, and respect for Hawaii.' The acquisition marks a significant milestone in the park's history, and it will be exciting to see how the new owners take the park to new heights.

The acquisition of Sea Life Park by the Hawaiian Council is a testament to the growing momentum towards Native Hawaiian self-determination and cultural revitalization. This momentous occasion heralds a new era of collaboration between the council, local stakeholders, and visitors, ensuring that the spirit of aloha will continue to thrive for generations to come.