Nānā I mua,
Nānā I hope

Honoring the Past, Preserving the Future

In April 2024, Areté Collective acquired 60 acres of land on the North Shore of O’ahu and is currently working on the first phase of low-rise residences. The first phase will total 20 resort residential units in four separate buildings (with five units in each building). Construction of the first phase is anticipated to be completed in 2027. In addition, 15 more buildings (with five to six units in each building) are planned in later phases, for a total of 100 units on the Resort Residential (RR)-3 parcel.

Over 70% of the project will be preserved as open space, and Areté is taking a future-forward approach by collaborating closely with local leaders, experts, and community decision-makers.

The buildings feature kama‘āina architectural elements with sustainability at the forefront.

Our Commitment to the Land

Cognizant of the responsibility that comes with new development, Areté Collective is working with partners to ensure environmental stewardship, including efforts to:

  • Enhance public access to the shoreline
  • Improve shoreline rehabilitation efforts
  • Prioritize native plant restoration and removal of invasive species
  • Minimize water usage with progressive technology
  • Seek input from cultural experts, local wildlife, and land conservation groups
  • Enhance public spaces and support local community groups
  • Create 1,000 jobs during the design and construction phases

FAQ

Please see our frequently asked questions below. If you have additional questions or would like to share input, please fill out the form at the bottom of this page, or our online survey. We will be updating the Community Update section monthly. You can also call 808.427.4840 to ask questions or share concerns.

About Areté Collective:

1. Who is Areté Collective?

Areté Collective is a vertically integrated development and design firm based in Salt Lake City, Utah. The firm has extensive development experience on the Big Island and Maui and is excited to bring its expertise to Oahu. Bringing together leaders across master planning, architecture, interior design, marketing, and financial management, Areté builds on its decades of development experience to bring the highest level of excellence to communities. For more information, please visit arete-collective.com.

2. What is the relationship between Areté Collective and Ritz Carlton Oahu, Turtle Bay?

Areté and Host Hotels & Resorts, the owner of the Ritz Carlton Oahu, Turtle Bay, are neighboring property owners. In 2021, Areté was selected by Blackstone Real Estate (BRE), the previous owner of the Turtle Bay Resort, to work on the master planning of a residential development adjacent to the Resort. Ultimately, BRE opted not to proceed with the residential development. Areté subsequently elected to purchase the land parcels, which are entitled for up to 350 resort residential and hotel units, and plans to develop them independently as a legacy property.

3. Does Areté have a local team?

Areté Hawaii is led by seasoned local real estate development executives with extensive experience at Turtle Bay and on neighboring islands. We are working with all Oahu-based contractors and project managers with years of experience working on the North Shore, including Goodfellow Bros (construction), ASM Affiliates (archaeology and historical preservation), and other local contractors and consultants. Additionally, we are seeking input from the North Shore Community Land Trust, Hui Kū Maoli Ola, and other community leaders to address community concerns and ensure native plant restoration, wildlife conservation and public access to the shoreline and trails are at the forefront for the responsible development of the project.

About the Project:

1. What is the timing of Phase 1, and where is it located?

Phase 1 of the project is situated on the Resort Residential (RR)-3 parcel east of Hole 12 on the Fazio Golf Course and makai of Hole 18 on the Palmer Golf Course. Site preparation began in May 2024 and vertical construction is expected to commence in Q4 2024 . Phase 1, which includes 20 low-rise resort residential units in four separate buildings (with five units per buildings), is targeted for completion by early 2027.

2. Where can I learn more about the real estate offering?

Prices for the residential units have yet to be finalized. Sales information is expected to be shared in Q4 2024.

3. Will short-term rentals be allowed?

Areté is developing resort residential condominiums that will not allow owners to lease or rent their units to the general public. This stipulation will be outlined in their recorded condominium declaration and will be enforced by the condominium association. There is expected to be staff onsite to ensure this rule is followed.

 

4. How will increased water demand affect the community?

The community should see no adverse effect from water use at the development. The Turtle Bay Resort Water Master Plan takes into account Areté’s proposed development and the projected water consumption is well within the approved Water Master Plan parameters.  Furthermore, Areté plans to reduce water consumption by incorporating native landscaping, reducing turf grass, and promoting water-saving technologies in buildings.

5. How will increased wastewater demand affect the community?

The community should see no adverse effect to wastewater flow. The approved Turtle Bay Resort Wastewater Master Plan takes into account Areté’s proposed development and projected wastewater flows. The existing onsite wastewater treatment plant has more than enough capacity to accommodate the projected demand.

6. Can you provide an update on the golf courses?

Operations of the Fazio and Palmer golf courses will be managed by Areté. Over the coming years, Areté plans to upgrade the golf experience by reducing irrigated turf grass areas, installing more efficient irrigation systems, and increasing native plant landscape areas.

7. Is there an approved EIS and SMA Permit?

Yes, there are an approved Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) and Special Management Area (SMA) Use Permit that remain valid. In July 2022, the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) confirmed that the SEIS is still valid and no further updates to the SMA Permit or additional environmental impact reports are required for Areté’s development. DPP found that, since the SEIS was originally approved with a much more substantial build out than Areté’s current development, the potential environmental impacts under the approved SEIS were much greater than the environmental impacts of the current proposal. Similarly, the original SMA Permit contemplated a project in significantly greater intensity and density than what is currently proposed. [View/Download SMA Permit]

8. What is the Unilateral Agreement (UA)? Who is responsible for it?

The UA is a long-standing agreement entered into in 1986 by the original developer of the Resort area that obligates any future owner to meet certain conditions imposed by the City and County of Honolulu. The UA allows for expansion of the Resort area and for the construction of resort residential and hotel units with certain conditions aimed at preserving the local environment, upgrading infrastructure as phased development occurs, ensuring public access to beaches, and maintaining open space. Host Hotels & Resorts is responsible for compliance and implementation of the UA. However, in connection with Areté’s land purchase, Areté has accepted certain limited obligations under the UA, including park improvements, access and parking improvements, roadway improvements, and a childcare center. [View/Download Unilateral Agreement]

9. Why are the Casuarina ironwood trees being felled?

The Casuarina ironwood trees, while well-established, are considered an invasive species in Hawaii.

The Ironwood trees are very fast growing and can grow as much as 5-10’ per year.  Due to the fast growth, ironwoods have a shallow root system, making them susceptible to falling over in high winds.  

Ironwoods can prevent the growth of ALL other plants in their understory, and can alter the structure and composition of native ecosystems.  Dense growth of ironwoods along coastal strands can interfere with the nesting habits of endangered sea turtles and seabirds.

The native plants we are restoring can actually retain sand and help build the dune system.  In addition, we are not removing the stumps or root systems of the ironwood, this prevents any disturbance to the existing dune.  

Their removal is part of a restoration effort to enhance the primary and secondary dune structures along the coastline, encouraging the return of native wildlife and to create a healthier, more sustainable ecosystem. 

Addressing Community Needs:

1. How many jobs will be created?

Preliminary estimates indicate that Areté’s projects will create over 1,000 jobs during the design and construction phases, with additional permanent employment opportunities upon completion. Individuals can fill out this form to see a list of future career opportunities and request more information about upcoming positions.

2. What measures will Areté take to protect native plants and wildlife in the area?

A Forest Management and Sand Dune Restoration Plan was developed with the Department of Land and Natural Resources in connection with the Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement and the historic Conservation Easement. Areté is committed to working within these guidelines and with various partners who will support the education and protection of native plants and wildlife. Specifically, Areté has engaged native Hawaiian plant specialists Hui Kū Maoli Ola, environmental consultant AECOS for construction-site flora and fauna monitoring, and Hawai’i Marine Animal Response to monitor for endangered species on the shoreline, including monk seals and albatross nesting areas. We have also sought input from the North Shore Community Land Trust and other community groups. We have updated and improved existing training protocols to educate and empower contractors, future residents, and employees to respect, respond to, and protect the native and marine species that inhabit this dynamic coastline.

3. Will public access to the shoreline and trails remain?

The public will continue to have access to the shoreline and trails during and after construction, although there may be temporary re-routing to some trails from time-to-time. Areté will continue to maintain, improve, and expand the trail systems for the enjoyment of Resort guests, visitors, and community members consistent with legal requirements. [View/Download Dust Fence Map]

4. How will Areté address increased traffic?

On the current timetable, Areté’s planned construction will not be fully completed and occupied for approximately five years. In the meantime, Areté is making some improvements, including tying Kaihalulu East Drive into Kuilima Drive. Areté is also committed to executing improvements under the 2022 Traffic Implementation Plan, including road widening of the Kamehameha Highway/Kuilima Drive intersection, a traffic signal warrant analysis, and a second intersection at Kamehameha Highway to provide access to the future Kawela Bay Park. The State of Hawaii’s Department of Transportation has confirmed that these improvements will not be triggered by the development on the Resort Residential (RR)-3 parcel but would likely be triggered by the development on the Hotel (H)-2 parcel.

5. What is the plan to provide affordable housing?

Areté will provide at least 10 affordable housing units in connection with the planned development of 100 units on the Resort Residential (RR)-3 parcel as required under the UA, with the intention of delivering additional workforce housing units. For residential resort units that are not part of a full-service hotel operation, Areté will provide affordable units equal to 10% of the residential resort units to residents earning less than 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). These units will be provided incrementally as each phase is built. If feasible, Areté may provide additional affordable or workforce housing units.

6. Is there an Emergency Action Plan for Turtle Bay Resort?

The Ritz Carlton Oahu, Turtle Bay has an Emergency Action Plan in place.  Areté plans to collaborate with Host Hotels & Resorts and the Ritz Carlton Oahu, Turtle Bay to incorporate its project into the Emergency Action Plan.

Development Updates

December 2024

Development Update: Vertical & Horizontal Construction Efforts are Currently Paused – Shoreline Restoration Work Continues

  • Stockpiling equipment on the driving range in preparation for the installation of fencing and best management practices on the airstrip laydown yard through mid-December
  • Setting up a container for the construction office  on the airstrip through the end of January
  • RR3 site prep and grading, removing invasives on RR3, and some work outside of the construction fence on lot 16
  • GBI scheduled to continue in RR3 January 2nd
  • Clearing of mauka basins and stockpiling by Hui Kū Maoli Ola should be completed mid-December

 

November 2024

Development Update: Vertical & Horizontal Construction Efforts are Currently Paused – Shoreline Restoration Work Continues

  • During the first week of October, we announced that we would voluntarily delay any vertical construction until December 1, 2024 to complete our proactive community engagement
  • Aside from clearing invasives, mulching felled trees, and clearing green waste, work has paused until we can build on the recent open house with over 250 participants, dozens of meetings with local environmental and community leaders, and hundreds of community members with whom the team has personally met
  • We look forward to hosting presentations at the Ko‘olauloa Neighborhood Board on November 7 and 14
  • Removal of invasives along the shoreline restoration area in front of Phase 1, as part of our commitment to improve the shoreline restoration
  • Mulch removal and management as part of our CRB (Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle) prevention program
  • Implementing a wage increase for Areté Collective, Turtle Bay Golf employees, which was an initiative set forth by Areté and voted in favor by the ILWU union
  • Areté Collective and Turtle Bay Golf hosted the Turtle Bay Foundation 11th Annual “Swing into Action” Golf Tournament fundraiser. The Turtle Bay Foundation provides support for deserving youth and organizations for the sustainable future of the North Shore and Ko’olauloa communities
  • Engaged HMAR (Hawaii Marine Animal Response) who are working on an ongoing initiative to monitor wildlife on the shoreline from Kuilima Point to Kahuku Point daily. Additionally, Areté has engaged AECOS to provide flora and fauna monitoring and reporting for all on-site development activities

 

October 2024

Development Update:

  • Mulching of felled invasive plants and clearing green waste continues at the airstrip.
  • Select clearing of invasive plants and fine grading continues on the RR3 parcel based on approved grading permits in preparation for phase 1 of construction.
  • Refining the pathway and improving access to the Kuleana parcel is in progress in mutual cooperation with the Kulenana residents.
  • Best management practices for Kaihalulu East Drive and the basins consistent with approved plans will begin in the months ahead.
September 2024

Development Update:

Work will continue from last month including clearing and leveling of the site in preparation for the building pads and construction of Kaihalulu East Road starting in October.

  • Select invasive clearing and fine grading of the RR3 Phase 1 site will continue in preparation for the building pads and construction. 
  • Kaihalulu East Drive dust fence and adjacent golf irrigation adjustments will begin in October. 
  • Areté will begin work on 5 retention basins near the existing Wastewater Treatment Plant and Kuilima Farms to slow and retain a portion of the water from large rain events.   
  • After September 15th, site preparation will continue at RR3 towards the 17th hole and closer to the old airstrip to establish a staging area for Brett Hill Construction to occupy in Q4 2024. All activities are located within Areté property. 
  • Daily site inspections and regular archaeological monitoring and marine mammal response efforts will continue.
August 2024

Development Update:

    • As of July 31, Areté has the privilege and responsibility for the management and operations of the Fazio and Palmer golf courses. We look forward to supporting the golf and landscaping team in improving these spaces and reducing water usage.
    • Temporary dust fences are up and BMPs (best management practices) around the site have been completed to manage stormwater runoff and prioritize safety.
    • As an extension of our commitment to the environment, compliance, and safety, we contracted a biologist to provide regular inspections and evaluations and help ensure continued safety for all endangered species that may be in the area.
    • To allow vehicles to safely enter the access gates without having to pull over on the highway for too long and cause a backup, a larger turning area was created next to the golf course and is the entry point for the future Emergency Vehicle Access.
    • Mark your calendars to attend our community open house on August 29 from 6-8pm at the Kahuku High School Cafeteria. Click here to RSVP.

We are thrilled to welcome Kiele Muraco as Development Project Manager. Previously, Kiele was an integral part of the Turtle Bay Development team for 12 years. Kiele will support Frank Thurman and the entire team with her wealth of knowledge about the community and history of the area. Born and raised at Sunset Beach, Kiele is a board member of the Turtle Bay Foundation and supports the Kahuku Burial Committee. 

July 2024

Development Update:

  • You may notice that teams have been onsite performing geotechnical analysis in key areas on the property.
  • Hui Kū Maoli Ola along with ASM Affiliates for archaeological monitoring recently removed invasive plants on the property to begin clearing the area for Phase 1.
  • Erosion control is ongoing with the installation of erosion control socks completed around the property.
  • Temporary dust fence is continuing. View/Download Dust Fence Map  

We are pleased to announce that Frank Thurman has joined our team as Vice President of Construction. Frank will be working closely with all of us to drive our construction activities for Areté at Turtle Bay, his insights, experience in the area, and leadership will undoubtedly be invaluable as we continue to grow our presence in Hawaii. 

June 2024

Development Update:

  • As we continue preparing the land for infrastructure and construction, 8-foot temporary dust fences will be erected around the RR3 Phase 1 property to allow ample room for vehicular circulation, staging, and more.
  • Goodfellow Bros., our lead civil contractor, will begin initial grading work on the site in July.
  • ASM Affiliates will be onsite to provide archeological monitoring as work begins below the surface.  

View/Download Dust Fence Map

For more information or to address concerns, please fill out the form below.

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