Happy
Honolulu
Tuesday, January 6th, 2026
Good morning, Honolulu. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 6th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ City leaders and the Department of Parks and Recreation opened the newest off-leash dog park at Punahou Square on Monday after the Makiki-Tantalus Neighborhood Board requested it; the half-acre park features a fenced area under a large Moreton Bay Fig tree and will be closed Tuesday mornings for maintenance. Hawaii News Now
- ➤ The Hui Manu O Ku rescued Honolulu’s official white tern in Kakaako as it marked its first rescue this year. With the bird’s population including over 570 eggs and chicks, more rescues are expected as the community continues its support. KITV
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Hawaiian Airlines announced a $600M, five-year plan to upgrade airports, technology and inflight features. The plan will renovate key terminals at Daniel K. Inouye and other airports while refreshing A330 interiors starting in 2028 (CEO Diana Birkett Rakow said the plan supports local workforce and sustainability). KITV
- ➤ Local business owners choosing retirement have four succession options — keeping it in the family, an employee stock plan, a third-party sale, or expert guidance — to guard their companies amid economic headwinds. Experts note careful planning now can protect legacies and ensure smooth transitions in Hawaiʻi. Hawaii Business
- ➤ Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines announced a five-year plan to invest over $600M in upgrading Daniel K. Inouye International Airport & their fleet of widebody A330 aircraft. The plan was unveiled on Monday, Jan. 5 in Honolulu. Honolulu Star-Advertiser
- ➤ Hawaiian Airlines announced a $600 million plan that will upgrade airport lounges, gates, airplane interiors and digital tools to improve traveler experience in Honolulu + across the islands. The project will begin soon and set a new standard for local air travel. Hawaii News Now
- ➤ Hawaiian Airlines announced today a $600 million, five-year investment to upgrade airport passenger areas and wide-body aircraft interiors. The upgrades include renovated lobbies at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport & a shared ticketing system set to be smoother after April. Honolulu Star-Advertiser
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Protect Kahoʻolawe ʻOhana celebrates 50 years since nine Native Hawaiian activists ignited a restoration movement on the island — the milestone underscores ongoing efforts to preserve its cultural heritage for future generations. KITV
- ➤ Renowned kumu hula Nalani Kanakaole died at 79, leaving a legacy in ancient traditions and modern teaching — the youngest daughter of Edith Kanakaʻole was celebrated for her role in preserving local culture. Hawaii News Now
- ➤ Beloved kumu hula Nalani Kanaka’ole died peacefully on Saturday in Hilo at age 79. She helped lead Halau o Kekuhi where she began hula training as a child (born and raised in Keaukaha) and leaves a lasting legacy in Hawaiian culture. KITV
- ➤ Honolulu honors the life of hula master Nālani Kanakaʻole, a fifth-generation practitioner and revered teacher who passed away peacefully at home at age 79. The family says plans for memorial services will be announced soon to celebrate her legacy. KITV
- ➤ The 50th Annual Chinatown Festival and Lunar New Year Parade is set for Saturday, Feb. 14 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. in Aala Park and N. Beretania St + the parade starts at 4:30 p.m. along Hotel St from the Hawaii State Capitol to Chinatown, featuring family activities. KITV
- ➤ Chinatown is hosting a Year of the Horse festival with lion and dragon dances + martial arts demonstrations, food and craft vendors, a keiki fun zone and live entertainment. Hawaii News Now
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ University of Manoa earned top rankings in nearly 20 subjects (oceanography, atmospheric science and hospitality management). The achievement highlights the university's academic excellence as recognized nationally and globally. KITV
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Hawaii men’s volleyball swept NJIT on Sunday at Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center, winning 3-0 and receiving last year’s championship rings as they built on their strong offense and defense. The team will play back-to-back matches against Loyola Chicago on Thursday. Hawaii Tribune-Herald
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.
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Reveal the authorAbout Happy Honolulu
Welcome to the Happy Honolulu, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Honolulu, Hawaii community. If you like the Happy Honolulu, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Honolulu.
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