Outrigger Hospitality Group officially welcomed Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa into its portfolio of premier beach resorts with a traditional Hawaiian blessing and ceremony, 25 August, and introductory rates of up to 30% off.On its first day of the resort being an Outrigger, a traditional blessing was led by Hawaiian cultural custodians Kumu Keala Ching and Kumu Kaipo Ho, alongside the resort’s heritage advisor, Rolinda Bean. There was a sharing of symbolic food such as breadfruit, sweet potato, taro, young coconut, pork, and sea salt. There was also an exchange of gifts: a framed copy of a chant that was written by Kumu Keala Ching for the hosts of the former Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort, and four Koa paddles, each one engraved with one of Outrigger’s four core values. The gifts were presented to the new hosts of the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa. Perched above the lava-rock cliffs on the dramatic Kona Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, the nine-hectare resort offers an idyllic home base for vacationing friends and families, as well as business and leisure groups. “Outrigger has provided heartfelt hospitality in Hawaii for nearly 75 years and our commitment to Hawaii remains steadfast. We’re proud to invest in our island home – especially amidst challenging times,” said Jeff Wagoner, President and CEO of Outrigger Hospitality Group. “We look forward to showcasing Hawaii’s illustrious past through the resort’s design, artwork and guest activations in an authentic way,” he added.
Outrigger was joined at the ceremony by Robert Command, Deputy Managing Director for Mayor Mitch Roth, as well as the Lim and Yap families from Traditions Hawai‘i.Steve Solberg, the resort’s new General Manager, said: “The energy and splendour of Hawai’i’s Big Island are palpable. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of this resort’s next chapter and work alongside a dedicated team to create unforgettable experiences for our guests.” With more than 500 spacious rooms/suites with private balconies, the grounds also feature Ho‘ola Spa, a wedding chapel, fitness centre and two restaurants. Kids — and kids at heart — will get a kick out of the 60-metre winding waterslide at the oceanfront pool and enjoy Outrigger’s Coral Kids Club, which is scheduled to open later this year. Introductory rates up-to 30 percent off are now available on Outrigger.com. SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES: Unique to the brand’s premier properties are Outrigger Resorts’ Signature Experiences where guests are invited to ‘escape ordinary’ and immerse themselves in an array of cultural programmes and one-of-a-kind localised activities. At Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa, the Signature Experiences include a 90-minute cultural tour that takes guests to the birthplace of King Kamehameha III; the ‘Feast and Fire lū‘au that celebrates the historic Keauhou region through song and dance; plus, it’s one of the only places in the world where guests can view giant manta rays and have the experience of a lifetime by snorkelling with them at night. MEETINGS & EVENTS: Located less than 30 minutes from Kona International Airport, the breathtaking oceanfront setting and tropical resort grounds make for striking meeting and event experiences. Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa boasts more than 9,290m2 of function space – inclusive of four adaptable indoor venues, oceanfront breakout rooms and expansive options for lush outdoor events. The on-site convention centre, with a 929m2 ballroom, is the largest on the Kona Coast and offers state-of-the-art audio-visual amenities to maximise productivity. A private chapel and expansive oceanfront grounds boast stunning views, picture-perfect for weddings and receptions. Custom catering highlights the unique culture of Hawaii by pairing locally sourced ingredients. A dedicated team makes event planning a breeze. For more information or to book a venue, visit outrigger.com/kona. BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE: For additional peace of mind when booking, Outrigger has flexible cancellation policies for its properties worldwide. With some very limited exceptions, cancellation fees will be waived for new bookings for all future dates, as long as the cancellation is made at least 24 hours prior to arrival. | 
