News Stories
Excavating for the Kona Hawaii Temple Expansion
A mound of dirt has been created on the south side of the Kona Hawaii Temple where excavation is taking place for a basement that will be located underneath the planned expansion. This activity marks a shift in construction from demolition to reconstruction. Over the past several months, the original building was reduced to a steel frame and foundation slab, which will be incorporated into the new building.
Preparing for Reconstruction of the Kona Hawaii Temple
During the demolition phase of the Kona Hawaii Temple renovation, the temple was reduced to its core steel frame and foundation. The vast majority of the landscaping was also removed. Over the coming months, the temple will be reconstructed with a slightly larger footprint. The interior and exterior will be updated with designs that take inspiration from the Aloha State including the Honolulu Tabernacle.
Structural Frame of the Kona Hawaii Temple Exposed
The structural frame of the Kona Hawaii Temple has been exposed, as demolition of the nearly 25-year-old building continues. Only a handful of structural posts and trusses will remain before the work of rebuilding commences. Church representatives originally proposed a taller building, but the request was denied by the local governing board. A modified rendering was released about a year ago, shortly before the temple closed.
Demolition Activity Continues at the Kona Hawaii Temple
A rainbow emerges through the gray clouds over the Kona Hawaii Temple where demolition and removal of the landscaping is advancing quickly. The temple steeple has been stripped of its marble cladding, and the angel Moroni statue, which held a horn in one hand and a scroll in the other, came down last week. The temple will be renovated and enlarged over the coming months. It is one of two temples that have been dedicated in the Hawaiian islands. Plans for two more have already been announced.
Demolition Begins at the Kona Hawaii Temple Site
Heavy equipment has begun the work of demolition at the Kona Hawaii Temple site where fencing and lamp posts have been taken down on the grounds. The nearly 25-year-old building will be completely renovated inside and out. An extension will be added on the south end of the building, and the exterior appearance will be modified to feature a steeple inspired by the historic Honolulu Tabernacle.
Construction Fence Erected Around the Kona Hawaii Temple
A chain-link fence has been installed around the Kona Hawaii Temple site, indicating that renovation work is imminent. The temple closed nine months ago, and local members have looked forward to the commencement of construction activity. An additional 2,500 square feet will be added to the south end of the building, and both the exterior and interior will be updated. The temple in Kona was the second to be constructed in the Hawaiian islands. Two additional temples have been announced for Kahului (Maui) and Honolulu (O'ahu).
Updated Rendering Released for the Kona Hawaii Temple
The Kona Hawaii Temple will close at the end of the day on Saturday, September 30, for an extensive renovation and enlargement project. An updated exterior rendering for the temple has been released, which features a shorter steeple and no angel Moroni statue. Kailua-Kona is located on the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. The renovations are expected to be completed by late 2025.
Major Renovation Announced for the Kona Hawaii Temple
In October 2023, the Kona Hawaii Temple will close for a major renovation that will increase the square footage of the building from 9,500 to approximately 12,000. The exterior appearance of the temple will also be updated. The renovations are expected to be completed by late 2025. During the closure, members of the temple district are encouraged to attend the Laie Hawaii Temple.