While other shopping centers in greater Lihu‘e have taken to charging for parking, this holiday season Kukui Grove Shopping Center is offering to park its customers cars — for free. Whether its the rainy weather, the crowded parking lots or
While other shopping centers in greater Lihu‘e have taken to charging for parking, this holiday season Kukui Grove Shopping Center is offering to park its customers cars — for free.
Whether its the rainy weather, the crowded parking lots or shopping bags, there’s no shortage of good excuses to take advantage of the debut service — one of many available to shoppers at no cost through Christmas.
Jonell Kaohelaulii, marketing manager at Kukui Grove, said mall traffic can triple during the busy season because people come from all sides to take advantage of Kaua‘i’s largest shopping center. That means almost 6,000 people during peak days. And with only 2,400 parking spaces — which is plenty for normal business days — you could find yourself circling for a spot.
“We want to encourage shoppers to come and spend time at the mall,” Kaohelaulii said. “… It takes away the stress from parking.”
Courtesy Valet Services of O‘ahu is running the operation from the entrance near Star Market. Valet is available through Dec. 24 from 3 p.m. to close on weekdays, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays.
The mall is also offering free bottled water to shoppers after 3 p.m. — the busiest time of day — as well as a holiday concierge service booth in the food court. Nonprofit organizations are invited each year to gift wrap for donations — a service that begins Dec. 16 with the Kalaheo Missionary Church.
Other new features at Kukui Grove include kiosk additions. Kaohelaulii said the kiosks help the mall vary its merchant mix. Last month, two new vendors made themselves at home at the mall: Island Nail and Artwork and Kauai Nut Roasters. Currently there are five spots remaining.
“It’s an opportunity for entrepreneurs on Kaua‘i to start up in a regional mall,” Kaohelaulii said.
Starting Dec. 17, the mall extends its hours to close at 9 p.m. every day. Snow falls are scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and Santa will be present Fridays through Sundays for visits and photos.
For more information on Kukui Grove holiday services, visit www.kukuigrovecenter.com
