FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE OCTOBER 28, 2026
Royal Kona Resort workers ratify new contract after nearly 2 years of bargaining
[Photos available for download here]
KAILUA-KONA, HI – Tonight, Royal Kona Resort workers represented by UNITE HERE Local 5 (Local 5) voted 100% YES to ratify their new contract after nearly two years of negotiations with management. Highlights of their new contract include historic wage increases, better job security language, protections in the event of a major emergency like the COVID-19 pandemic, and more.
Since their contract expired in January 2025, Royal Kona workers have taken various steps to secure a fair contract including going on a one-day strike in December 2025, rallying outside the property on a consistent basis, engaging with hotel guests, and getting the support of community members and elected leaders.
“We were ready to do whatever it takes to win the fair contract we deserve–even going on strike–and in the end it was worth it,” said Daniel Hauanio, Royal Kona Resort, Maintenance, 18 years of service. “It was hard, but I didn’t give up because I know we weren’t just fighting for Royal Kona workers, we were fighting for our families and for our community.”
Local 5 filed an unfair labor practice with the National Labor Relations Board against Royal Kona Resort for declaring impasse in the middle of CBA negotiations & implementing changes to working conditions before the Union and Employer had bargained. In March 2026, the federal government found that when the Hotel changed working conditions without bargaining with the Union, it violated federal labor law.
“It has been almost 2 years of relentless fighting and disrespect from management. Ultimately, we won because Royal Kona Resort workers did not give up and did not allow management to treat them like they were second-class,” said Gemma Weinstein, President. “The hospitality industry continues to be Hawai‘i’s number one industry and we need to make sure these jobs continue to be good jobs for future generations, whether it’s in Waikiki or on our neighbor islands.”
Local 5 has secured new contracts for over 8,000 workers at 24 Hawai‘i hotels since the 40-day strike at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in 2024. Royal Kona Resort was the last hotel to settle, marking the end of this contract cycle.
