Aoki to shave last ice block at party today

Today Cathy Aoki and employees at Aoki’s Shave Ice will throw a final block of ice on the machine, scoop powdery stuff into one more finely shaped cone, and pour on their last Hawaiian Delight Mix (pineapple, coconut and banana syrups).

It’s their final day of business, at least for now.

The iconic Aoki’s building that dates from the 1920s is being torn down to make way for a Haleiwa redevelopment project by landowner Kamehameha Schools.

The family has sold shave ice from the shop across a parking lot from its more famous rival, Matsumoto Shave Ice, since 1981.

The Aokis in April 2012 opened Aoki’s North Shore Trading Co. near their current location. The new shop is focused on North Shore-related gifts, casual wear and souvenirs.

But the family hopes to expand the store to accommodate shave ice operations by sometime in the first half of 2014, said Aoki, the third-generation owner.

MEANWHILE, the old Aoki’s is throwing a country-style farewell gathering for family, friends and supporters from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. today. Live music, raffles, a vintage car show, a photo collage and other features will start about 4 p.m., Aoki said. Proceeds from shave ice and raffle sales will go to charity.

A steady stream of what she calls "generational customers" have been making their way to the shop over the summer.

"There are many parents and grandparents bringing the children in, wanting to make sure that the kids see this," Aoki said.

The store’s closing has already been extended twice, first from May 31 to July 31.

"We just appreciate everybody’s support and coming to visit us throughout all these years," Aoki said.

Kamehameha Schools had offered a site in the redeveloped area to the Aokis.

But after reviewing options and realizing the offer would entail a closure period beyond its control, the family declined and instead chose to concentrate its efforts at its new store across the street.

Matsumoto’s is unaffected by the redevelopment plans.