This large plantation was developed by a German, Rudolph Meyer, who married a Hawaiian chiefess. The plantation sold several times, with sugarcane, pineapple and honey production. Lack of water and market conditions led to closings. It has been in the Cooke family since 1908 and in the late 1960's, they sold a large parcel to developers who built Kaluakoi Resort and condos.
Agricultural diversification is a goal and coffee, sheep and cattle are being tried.
A heated debate continues about modern vs. traditional, tourism vs. agriculture. Poor native believe tourism will eventually dispossess them from their home.