HCR106 is a concurrent resolution that endorses Waikiki for recognition as a World Surfing Reserve under the Save the Waves Coalition program. The measure describes Waikiki as a globally significant surf location with a long cultural history, including its role in Native Hawaiian surfing and the legacy of Duke Kahanamoku, and emphasizes that surfing there is both a sport and a cultural practice tied to Native Hawaiian heritage.
The resolution also frames Waikiki as an area where environmental protection and economic vitality are closely linked. It notes that Waikiki is a major tourist destination, supports important natural resources and protected species, and faces threats from climate change, coral bleaching, and polluted flood runoff. The resolution states that recognition would help raise awareness and support ongoing local efforts to preserve the surf ecosystem and surrounding environment.
Impact
As a concurrent resolution, HCR106 does not change state law, create new regulatory authority, or appropriate funds. Its practical effect is symbolic and advisory: it expresses the Legislature’s support for Waikiki’s designation as a World Surfing Reserve and transmits that endorsement to state and local officials, including the Board of Land and Natural Resources, the Mayor of Honolulu, and the Waikiki Beach Special Improvement District Association. The resolution may help bolster future preservation, tourism, and conservation efforts by lending official legislative support to an existing community-led designation effort.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests broad support, with the Senate Water, Land, and Agriculture Committee passing the measure 3-0 and no recorded opposition in the provided materials. The bill’s tone is strongly positive, celebrating Waikiki’s cultural importance, surf heritage, environmental value, and economic significance. The resolution presents the designation as a natural fit for a place that already has community support and preservation infrastructure in place.
Contention
No direct opposition or committee controversy is shown in the provided record. The only potential points of tension are implicit rather than explicit: balancing tourism and surf access with environmental protection, and managing climate-change-related threats such as coral bleaching and pollution runoff. The resolution itself argues that these concerns strengthen the case for recognition, and it portrays local stakeholders, conservation interests, and government entities as aligned in support of the designation.
Authorizing The Issuance Of A Twenty-five-year Term, Non-exclusive Easement Covering A Portion Of State Submerged Lands At Waikiki, Honolulu, Oahu, For Concrete Stairs, And For Use, Repair, And Maintenance Of The Improvements Constructed Thereon.
Urging The State Of Hawaii And City And County Of Honolulu To Collaborate In The Development Of A World-class, Comprehensive Sports Complex In West Oahu.
Endorsing Taiwan's International Participation, Supporting The Signing Of A United States-taiwan Bilateral Trade Agreement, And Commemorating The Relationships And Exchanges Between The State Of Hawaii And Taiwan.