Awards note Waikiki improvements

The Waikiki Improvement Association recently announced the recipients of its annual awards.

The Hoowehiwehi Nui Award went to the Grand Waikikian. The award honors a new development or project for its “;significant contribution toward the revitalization of Waikiki's physical, cultural and/or economic environment.”; In announcing the award, the WIA said “;The 38-story Grand Waikikian evokes the ambiance of a grand Hawaiian Hotel, while offering the amenities and comforts of a world-class resort condominium.”;

Three Hoowehiwehi Lihi Awards were bestowed. This award is aimed at projects that enhance existing structures or facilities. The winners were:

» The Royal Hawaiian Hotel restoration. “;The project restated, enhanced, restored and expressed the Hawaiian history and presence of the land and grace of this place in a manner befitting its royal past with an eye on its future,”; the WIA announcement said.

» The Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Lagoon at the Hilton Hawaiian Beach Resort & Spa. Developed in the 1950s, the lagoon was restored with a state-of-the-art circulation system and enhanced landscaping.

» Outrigger Reef on the Beach. The hotel's $110 million makeover pays “;homage to Hawaii's extraordinary voyaging history and cultural heritage and many aspects of its metamorphosis were done in collaboration with Hawaiian cultural experts,”; the WIA said.

The George S. Kanahele Hookipa Award award was given to the Mohalapua O 'Ilima program at the 'Ilima Hotel. The program involves classes for hotel employees on such topics as Hawaiian music, hula, traditions, history and Hawaiian arts and crafts.