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- calendar_today October 28, 2026
Koko Crater Stables Tenant Receives Notice to Vacate
The City has directed Aloha Riding Lessons, the current operator of Koko Crater Stables, to vacate the property by mid-January 2027. Aloha Riding Lessons has been based at the Hawaii Kai site for over three years, providing horseback riding instruction and maintaining the stables through an interim right of entry while waiting for a full contract.
Details of the Property Vacate Order
The City mandated that Aloha Riding Lessons must leave the Koko Crater Stables by Friday, January 15, 2027. Owner Kim Hollandsworth explained that the organization has invested significant time and resources in the upkeep of the stables, including rebuilding the barn, maintaining the grounds, installing perimeter fencing, and constructing a round pen for training. "We've been in here for three and a half years. We built out the entire barn. We’ve kept the property mowed. We put up the perimeter fencing where it had holes in it. We’ve done a lot of maintenance. We put in a round pen," Hollandsworth said. She expressed her frustration over the lengthy wait for a contract and concern about the future of the facility.
Community Concerns About the Program’s Future
The potential departure of Aloha Riding Lessons has raised concerns among members of the Hawaii Kai community. Resident Herb Schreiner said the riding lessons program offers accessible horseback riding experiences, as it does not require participants to own a horse or adhere to a dress code. Schreiner added, "The kids come in, and it’s not like they put you on the horse and walk around. She teaches them to clean this up, to groom the horses. Teaches them how to put the saddles on." Schreiner and others worry that losing this stables tenant could be a significant setback for horseback riding opportunities in Hawaii.
Uncertain Future for Equestrian Activities
Hollandsworth questioned whether similar equestrian activities would be available at Koko Crater Stables after Aloha Riding Lessons leaves. "The problem is once we’re out, I don’t think they’ll ever put horses back on this property again. I think they want it for something else. They’ve always said this is a problem property," she noted. Schreiner echoed this concern, expressing disappointment and stating, "The neighborhood board wants to keep this as a community asset. Kind of livid that they’re kicking them out."
City of Hawaii’s Response and Plans
The City’s Communications Director issued a statement confirming that Aloha Riding Lessons will be leaving the property. The statement outlined the City’s intention to reevaluate the site’s future, incorporating feedback from the community. "Aloha Riding Lessons (ARL) will be exiting the property, and the City will be assessing the best use for the property going forward, with input from the community. ARL will be provided a reasonable period of time to exit the property. All options, including equestrian activities, are on the table for discussion, and the City is excited about maximizing benefits for the community from this City asset. The City will not be commenting on the specifics of our contract with Aloha Riding Lessons."
Next Steps for the Stables
With Aloha Riding Lessons given until January 15, 2027, to vacate, the future of Koko Crater Stables remains uncertain. The City has said all options are under consideration, including continuing equestrian activities. Community members await further details on what will become of the stables and whether horseback riding and related programs will continue at the site.
Source: khon2.com.
