KAMUELA, Hawaii (AP) – The Big Island’s fabled Parker Ranch is reducing public access to its historic properties and rare art because of the slow economy, a ranch spokeswoman said.

The Mana Hale and Puuopelu historic homes are no longer open to the public Tuesdays through Saturdays. Puuopelu, the former home of the ranch’s last owner, Richard Smart, houses a rare collection of art from around the world.

The move is part of an ongoing effort by the foundation that owns Parker Ranch to cut costs after $18 million in operational losses in 2008.

“Parker Ranch is still exploring opportunities to be able to open the home on a more regular basis. We are all very passionate about the history of Parker Ranch,” Diane Quitiquit said. “It’s just a great honor to share that with visitors and our community.”

The houses will be available to tour during the Feb. 6 Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival, and there will be 10 dates before then during which the homes will be opened for private groups.

But beyond that, what will be done with the properties hasn’t been undetermined, Quitiquit said. And the fate of the artwork, antiques and memorabilia housed in the buildings is also up in the air, she said.

“There are no plans to move any of the Hawaiian artifacts in the Mana Hale house,” Quitiquit said. “Although there have been some changes, there hasn’t been a long-term decision made.”

While the home tours are no longer available, the ranch will continue to offer horseback riding tours, ATV tours and hunting excursions, she said.

Founded on the Big Island more than 160 years ago, Parker Ranch is one of the largest ranches in the nation.

Last year, Parker Ranch offered to sell 3,509 acres of North Kohala property for a reported $50 million. That sale to an undisclosed buyer is expected to close later this year.

The ranch also sold its realty division in November.

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Information from: Hawaii Tribune-Herald,

http://www.hilohawaiitribune.com

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AP-WS-01-10-10 0008EST