Rules keep changing and we want to be sure you have the latest information. This week, there were changes affecting three islands, and more information for yet another.
Big Island post-arrival tests to end June 1.
Starting June 1, the second, on-arrival tests previously required for all except those fully vaccinated will end. That comes as over 75% of arrivals are now fully vaccinated. B.I. Mayor Roth said, “With the amount of fully vaccinated travelers landing on our island, airport testing no longer seems necessary for the health and safety of our island.”
Kauai has moved to Tier 4 and eyes a complete reopening now.
Tier 4 now permits higher numbers for indoor gatherings including restaurant seating for up to 10 in a group. The number of people at outdoor events is 25 and at professionally organized events at established venues from 30 to 50 outdoors.
Kauai also unveiled new Tiers 5 and 6 with even fewer restrictions. When implemented these will be based on statewide vaccination rates. Tier 5 is when 60% of statewide residents are fully vaccinated among other things, whereas Tier 6 is following 70% vaccinated. Tier 6 essentially allows all activities to return to full capacity.
Whether Hawaii will see the percentages required to further reduce restrictions is not clear. That, given a significant slow-down of interest in vaccination. And that even though Kauai will bring vaccinations to you for those who can’t get to vaccination locations. Further significant incentives for vaccination are likely to be needed.
Oahu to move to Tier 4.
That is expected to be approved in the next few days. The move would permit additional nightlife and dancing previously restricted, and groups of up to 25 would be allowed in gatherings, including bars, restaurants, and workout classes, among other changes. Commercial boating would also return to 75% capacity. We are awaiting further details from the mayor and governor.
Governor to Maui: No, not so fast.
The state has said no to Maui’s request to further reduce COVID restrictions. The island had requested an increase from 50% to 75% of capacity limits for businesses. The governor wants the state to move in unison on such a change, he said.
Maui will also retain its on-arrival testing requirements at this time.
On june 15th we are leaving LAX to Oahu I was informed that as of that date we do not need to get a covid test or anything else,can you please tell me if this is correct. Thank You
Hi John.
That is not correct. You must still comply with the state’s Safe Travels testing protocol.
Aloha.
Victorino, only wasted $2.7 million on a second test that produced 5 positives. Out of 93,000 tests, just under 4000 were vaccine exempt. Yet that illustrates the vaccine is working? ( he says) To me that says, “ mainlanders just aren’t as dirty as he thinks.”
When you call the mayors office with real l concerns, they hang up on you after spewing their canned answers. ( which is basically “our hospitals blah blah blah”)
Wonder how much Victorino pocketed out of that $2.7 million?
Aloha! We have been coming to Kauai for 9 years and hope to return in 2022. We have a question perhaps you can help us with.
Re: When should My husband and I get our safe travel Covid test? …at United airlines in Newark, New Jersey at EWR (or elsewhere?) AND will they be a trusted partner in 2023?
We are leaving NEWARK, NJ on a 8:20AM UNITED AIRLINES FLIGHT and flying into Honolulu, HI at 2:15 pm on 1/3/2022. We are THEN flying into Lihue, Hi at 5:30 PM on 1/3/2022.
With 2 Hawaiian Airports involved, a 5 or 6 hour time differential and weekend and New Years Eve holiday hours, it is very confusing.
We are an older couple (fully MODERNA vaccinated in NJ) and REALLY NEED and APPRECIATE your help.
What date/time/place to get covid test? Thank you
Can you help us figure this out?
Hi Karen.
It is too early to know what it will look like in January. Next month the state plans to eliminate testing for those fully vaccinated. Please stay tuned for more on that.
Aloha.