Explore every episode of the podcast Hawaii News Now

The state Supreme Court heard arguments today on whether Honolulu Zoo’s elephants have the right to challenge their confinement. The man accused of a shocking kidnapping near Diamond Head pleaded not guilty. Plus, a community is on high alert after a reported gunpoint carjacking in broad daylight at Kapi‘olani Community College.

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Local music, creative reuse and community action. Hear Jiayin and Christina Sochor perform, preview a trashion show supporting Hawaiʻi’s coastlines and learn how Rotary is making a difference.

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Police are investigating a hit and run in Halawa Heights. The man accused of fatally stabbing a 66-year-old woman in Kalihi appeared to smile at times during his court appearance Friday. Plus, Maui's police chief John Pelletier, who is on paid leave, will be asking the Maui Police Commission to reinstate him.

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Nearly three months after Hurricane Lala, debris is still causing concerns in upcountry Maui. We'll tell you what residents want done to keep drivers safe. Plus, Honolulu's police chief says he's met 35 of his 37 first-100-day goals. We'll tell you what's still in the works. And, the FAA is getting ready to say goodbye to floppy disks. A look at what's replacing the decades-old technology and when.

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Nearly three months after Hurricane Lala caused widespread damage across the islands, upcountry Maui residents say storm debris remains a safety hazard. On Kauai, all state parks and lookouts between Waimea Canyon Lookout and Pihea have reopened following Hurricane Lowell. Plus, a 69-year-old woman who was hit by a car in the Honolulu Zoo parking lot on Friday has died.

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A brush fire sent crews into a Kihei neighborhood last night, prompting road closures. A man is in custody after a deadly attack at Pearl Kai, as the victim’s family grapples with their sudden loss. Plus, Leeward Oahu is under a First Alert as Hawaiian Electric expands its power shutoff watch across the islands.

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On Sunrise: A man is dead after an attack at Pearl Kai, and police have released a photo as they search for the suspect. Two versions of a Kauai photo are raising questions about where a monk seal was, as community members dispute one woman’s account. Honolulu police have also arrested a 44-year-old man on suspicion of second-degree murder in a deadly Waikiki assault.

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A social media post showing two women with a Hawaiian monk seal at Salt Pond Beach Park on Kauaʻi is drawing backlash and prompting investigations by state and federal authorities. Maui Police Chief John Pelletier, who is on paid leave, plans to ask the Maui Police Commission to reinstate him.

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The man accused of brutally stabbing a Kalihi convenience store employee appears in court as new details emerge about the deadly encounter. Utility poles came crashing down in Moiliilii this morning causing damage to a car below. And days after democrats took back the house and senate in a landslide, a major staffing shakeup is coming to President Trump's administration.

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Local flavors and holiday plans are on the menu. Explore exclusive menus during HONOLULU Restaurant Week, then get Thanksgiving turkey tips and ideas for a local-style feast.

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Republicans and Democrats are beginning to lay out plans for what's ahead after Tuesday's decisive change of power. Back here at home, a man was arrested after allegedly fatally stabbing an employee of a gas station mini mart who tried to stop him from stealing beer. And Honolulu city councilman Tyler Dos Santos Tam took over leadership of the council yesterday after a bruising debate that revived allegations of a secret meeting to give him the position.

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A major shakeup at the Office of Hawaiian Affairs as a longtime trustee is ousted after the election. A development on Kauai as plans by the Navy and NASA for leased lands hits a snag. Why an required enviromental impact statement has now been withdrawn. Arbor Day celebrations kick off statewide today. Where you can adopt a free tree in your neighborhood this weekend.

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The man accused of fatally stabbing a 66-year-old clerk at a Kalihi gas station mini mart has been charged. Meanwhile, Honolulu City Council member Tyler Dos Santos-Tam took over council leadership Thursday after a debate that revived allegations of a secret meeting to give him the position.

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A gas station mini-mart in Kalihi is now the scene of a horrific crime. Police have opened a murder investigation after a woman was fatally stabbed there. Meanwhile, episode 56 of the ongoing Halemaʻumaʻu eruption began at 12:10 p.m. on Thursday.

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Bold street art, inspired partnerships and community-rooted workshops. Discover an ambitious new exhibition at Bishop Museum, preview a culturally inspired holiday collaboration with NOHO HOME, and see how local enterprises are shaping island tourism.

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In major Hawaii election upsets, a long-time trustee has been ousted from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs after 26 years. Meanwhile, officials report hundreds of deficient Maui ballot envelopes that could sway tight local races, including a narrow District 14 contest. Plus, Hawaii Attorney General Anne Lopez will not be returning for a second term.

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An outpouring of emotion from the family of Sara Yara as the man who killed the teen heads to prison. How long he'll serve. A new approach to address homelessness on Maui. Details on the county's new Safe Parking Program and what it offers people in need. And, taking a live look at Kilauea this morning.

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With Democrats winning control of both chambers of Congress in the general election, the national “blue-nami” is good news for Hawaii’s representation in Washington, D.C. Meanwhile, in West Maui’s District 14, Green Party candidate Pā‘ele Kiakona has a 107-vote lead over Democrat Sne Patel. 

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With votes still being counted across Hawaii, local Democrats are expanding their supermajority at the state Capitol while the minority caucus loses key members amid an overwhelming blue wave. A breakdown of the local reaction to that shifting balance of power and what it means for the upcoming legislative session. Plus, emotional moments from Circuit Court as the reckless driver who killed 16-year-old Sara Yara near McKinley High School learns his 20-year prison sentence and faces her grieving family.

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Legendary stages reborn, handmade pasta traditions and meaningful ways to give back across Oahu. Today, Tavana talks about reviving iconic music venue Anna O'Briens, acclaimed chefs preview the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival, and local appliance experts mark 30 years by donating thousands of dollars.

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Top Democrats in congress are celebrating a victorious midterm election. Hawaii officials continue to tabulate final votes but we've already called most of the races. Police escorted a man wearing a vest marked ICE off the voting grounds at Honolulu Hale last night. Plus, police are looking for a man who carjacked a family in Waikiki Monday night.

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They're still counting the ballots in Hawaii this morning But some major victories have already been decided. Plus, planning your holiday shopping? New data shows inflation has many families scaling back we'll break down the budget. And, an all-or-nothing choice for schools when it comes to Google and AI use we'll tell you the details. 

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Following the release of the second printout in the 2026 general election, Gov. Josh Green and Lt. Gov. Derek Kawakami secured a decisive victory alongside projected wins for U.S. Reps. Ed Case and Jill Tokuda. County mayoral races also take center stage, with incumbent Richard Bissen ahead on Maui and Mel Rapozo building a strong lead on Kauaʻi.

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Election Day is in full swing across Hawaiʻi with key races for governor, county mayors, and charter amendments on the line, even as local turnout lags compared to past midterms. Other states are seeing historic turnout as candidates reach the home stretch with control of Congress up for grabs. Plus, a break down of the issues driving voters to the ballot box and examine why the battle for the U.S. Senate is closer than ever.

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Big shopping deals, live local music and the ultimate holiday feast shortcut. We are tracking down the best places to find one-of-a-kind gifts, hear local music and grab pre-ordered Thanksgiving grindz before spots fill up.

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Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi joins "Spotlight Now" to address the biggest issues facing the City and County of Honolulu. The mayor reveals his push to make the general excise tax surcharge for rail permanent to fund future extensions to Waikīkī and the University of Hawaiʻi, explains the city's urgent interim options as the Waimānalo Gulch landfill deadline nears, discusses police patrol reassignments to curb overtime, and shares an update on the city's bid to bring giant pandas to the Honolulu Zoo.

Then, Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT) economist Jacob Vuillemin breaks down a new report on Japan’s evolving economic footprint in Hawaiʻi. From shifting tourist spending patterns and exchange rates to multibillion-dollar opportunities in defense contracting, agricultural seed research, and prefabricated housing, Vuillemin explains how the bilateral relationship extends far beyond Waikīkī.

Finally, in our Community Spotlight partnership with Hawaiʻi Pacific Health, Honolulu pulmonologist and critical care specialist Dr. Samuel Evans addresses Hawaiʻi’s low lung cancer screening rates. Dr. Evans explains risk factors for both smokers and non-smokers, and spotlights cutting-edge robotic bronchoscopy technology that is revolutionizing early detection right here at home.

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Voters across Hawaii are heading to the polls today for the midterm election. The driver who struck and killed a teenager near McKinley High School nearly four years ago is set to be sentenced today. Plus, a woman who confronted a naked kidnapping suspect warns others to stay on guard.

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The federal government denies aid for Hawaii homeowners with storm damage we'll tell you why. Plus, it's Election Day in Hawaii, Casey Lund will be live at the polls this morning to tell us more on how officials are preparing for today. The alert level for Kilauea is now at a WATCH, with scientists warning a major fountaining episode could begin at any moment.

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We break down early ballot turnout and everything you need to know before heading to the polls on Election Day. On Maui, Kula Hospital has a target reopening date and a repair plan in place after devastating storm damage forced it to shut down. Plus, federal investigators are searching for answers in South Florida following a private jet crash that left nine people dead.

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A century of creativity and tee times with a view. Tune in as 101-year-young crafter Madge Kano shares her secrets to a purposeful life, then discover how to score budget-friendly rounds on Oahu’s Ala Wai Golf Course.

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Hawaii Island police are investigating the death of a woman in Kona. Video of an attack at Baldwin High School in Wailuku is now part of a criminal investigation. Plus, details are unfolding after several people were shot to death at a northern California beach.

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New reports of the door kicking challenge this time on Oahu. We'll hear about the terrifying experience from an Ewa Beach homeowner and how she's asking for help from the community. Investigation ongoing after a small plane crashed on Kauai. How many were injured and who was able to walk away. Closed for repairs. Where to go with the Ala Wai boat dock out of commision and how long it's expected to last.

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On Sunrise, Kuhio Highway near Hanalei Bridge was reopened Sunday morning after it was closed overnight due to flooding. And on Hawaii Island, police are still investigating the death of a 34-year-old Kona woman after an autopsy confirmed it was a homicide.

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On Sunrise: We examine the ongoing investigation and growing community concerns following a violent attack on Maui’s Baldwin High School campus. With a busy Halloween night ahead on Oahu's roads, we look at essential safety tips to keep trick-or-treaters and drivers safe. Plus, details on how five people managed to escape after a small plane crash-landed on Kauai.

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Gov. Josh Green approved a new Office of Elections rule Friday that sets a written procedure for deciding a winner in a tied race. Maui police have made an arrest and increased security at Baldwin High School after a video of an assault on campus became part of a criminal investigation.

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We're following developing news out of Kauai, where a small tour plane was forced to make an emergency crash landing. Ahead of a busy Halloween weekend, a message of caution from city leaders and plans for stepped up enforcement. Plus, local environmental groups gathered at the federal building today to speak out against a bill aimed at protecting America's energy producers. 

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Spooky season fun, weekend nightlife and early holiday shopping. We are getting into the Halloween spirit with HNN employee costumes, exploring thrilling events at The Gatsby in Kakaʻako, and previewing the upcoming Na Lehua Marketplace and Festival.

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We're following developing news out of Kauai, where one person is injured after a small plane made an emergency crash landing in Waimea. An Oahu grand jury indicted the man charged with kidnapping a woman in Diamond Head this week. And Honolulu's police chief says the plan to reassign one hundred police officers from desk jobs to the streets starts Sunday.

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A planned staffing shakeup elicits tough questions for HPD's chief. The progress he says is being made to protect the community. Is your driver's license set to expire? The city says a surge of renewals will be needed in the weeks ahead. What you need to know if you want to avoid those long lines at the DMV. A new rule on how the state will handle election ties. What will be done if candidates end up neck-and-neck.

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A 23-year-old man accused of kidnapping a woman from a garage on the Diamond Head Gold Coast appeared before a judge for the first time Thursday morning. Meanwhile, Honolulu City Council member Tyler Dos Santos-Tam has introduced a resolution to become chair of the City Council. His rival for the job, Andria Tupola, said he is moving too quickly and may have broken the law.

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Hawaii's sports community is heartbroken over the loss of legendary UH Football Coach June Jones. Heavy rainfall has caused dangerous flash flooding and an evacuation warning on Maui. And the young man accused of kidnapping a woman from a Diamond Head apartment building appeared before a judge today.

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Powerful steps, personal stories and a celebration of island craft. Find out how local families are honoring loved ones at the 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer’s Oahu, and explore handcrafted sips from the 13th annual Made in Maui County Festival.

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A flash flood warning has been extended for Maui County until 3 this afternoon as we continue tracking the threat of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and flooding. Hawaii's sports community is mourning the loss of legendary UH Football Coach June Jones, who passed away last night at the age of 73. And the man accused of trying to kidnap a woman on the Diamond Head Gold Coast appeared before a judge today.

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A social media challenge is damaging door and fraying nerves on Maui. The call from residents to do something about this neighborhood nuisance. One golfer needs a bit more time on the range. A big surprise for a driver in Ko Olina when an errent shot smashed into his windshield. Who is responsible for damages and why it could be tough to make them pay up. Check out this work of art, perfect for the waves. Where the pre-teen artist drew her inspiration and where it'll be on display.

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The threat for minor flooding and ponding will continue through tonight as a surface trough shifts over the eastern half of the state. Meanwhile, after 55 years of mostly free art classes and cultural lessons, the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa will end its Community Programs next June.

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Fall flavors and weekend projects. Sample limited-time pumpkin desserts popping up around Oahu and pick up simple safety tips for your next DIY paint refresh.

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Heavy rain triggered widespread flooding on Molokaʻi, forcing schools and county offices to shut down. Charges have been filed against the man accused of kidnapping a woman along the Diamond Head coast. Plus, an Ocean View couple faces an exhausting and costly rebuild months after Hurricane Lala slammed Hawaii Island.

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It is a First Alert Weather Day, as the statewide flood watch has been extended through early Thursday. All that rain could make for some dangerous driving conditions, so our Casey Lund gives us a look at the roads in East Oahu. And we're following some developing news out of Spain, where the country's Prime Minister has announced three days of national mourning after a high-speed train collision killed at least 68 people and injured dozens. 

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It's a First Alert Weather Day, as a flood watch is in effect across the state. There were heavy downpours overnight. We have team coverage to get you ready for today's conditions. Terrifying moments caught on camera, as a man is seen grabbing a woman from behind in the Diamond Head area. We have reaction from witnesses and the latest on the suspect. A change that all Merrie Monarch fans need to know about. Why you'll want to get those ticket request forms ready a bit earlier.

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Our First Alert Weather Team is tracking the arrival of wet weather and the potential for heavy showers and isolated thunderstorms. Meanwhile, with a week to go before the November general election, political spending in Hawaii has reached a new high, and most of it is coming from one source.

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