Hong Kong’s Ocean Park has opened up its latest attraction – an outback themed park offering guests an authentic Australian experience and the sovereign state’s first koalas.

The new animal attraction, which will include koalas, red-necked wallabies and kookaburras, features interactive panels, games and a film corridor – depicting images of South Australia’s Outback. Five more koalas, gifted by the Government of South Australia, will eventually relocate to Hong Kong to join the three currently on display.

The climate-controlled addition, designed using recycled timber and other environmentally-friendly materials, will match the season in South Australia, with special LED lighting effects to simulate the hours of the day.

“The opening of Adventures in Australia marks an important milestone in the relationship between Hong Kong and South Australia,” said John Tsang, financial secretary for Hong Kong.

“Much more than attractions however, the new exhibit will help spread critical messages of conservation and sustainability. No less important, these messages symbolise the close bonds that Hong Kong and South Australia have long enjoyed, and will continue to enjoy.”

Ocean Park chair, Leo Kung, added: “Our Design and Planning, Construction, and Zoological and Education teams have all done an amazing job in creating an iconic attraction to present the animals from South Australia and immerse our guests in an educational adventure unlike anything else on offer around the world.

"I encourage everyone to plan ahead for an exciting excursion at Ocean Park during the upcoming Easter period to meet Hong Kong’s first koalas and more!”