Hong Kong Ocean Park marks 50th anniversary with conservation push
Hong Kong's Ocean Park will celebrate its 50th anniversary in January 2027, with the government pledging support for its transformation into a conservation education base. The park plans new animal-themed activities, an adventure zone and expanded panda facilities.
The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism attended the launch of Ocean Park's 50th anniversary celebration on Tuesday, hailing the attraction as a "good friend" that has accompanied generations of Hongkongers since it opened in 1977.
Speaking at the ceremony, the secretary noted that the park holds cherished memories for many, from first seeing dolphins leap at the Ocean Theatre to watching giant pandas at the exhibition hall. The 50th anniversary campaign is themed "Ocean Park 50 Years: Continuing a Vibrant Future", with the government pledging continued support for the park's conservation and education work.
"These achievements reflect the long-term efforts of our conservation team," the secretary said, highlighting that giant panda Ying Ying became the oldest recorded panda to give birth for the first time, the park bred the world's first bull ray through artificial insemination, and it was the first institution in Hong Kong to successfully breed the eyed turtle.
Looking ahead, the government will support Ocean Park's development into a conservation and research education base, as outlined in Hong Kong's first five-year plan. The park will launch more activities themed around giant pandas and other animal conservation, bringing its knowledge and experience to schools and the community. It will also upgrade entertainment facilities, including planning a new adventure zone on the hilltop.
A series of anniversary activities will roll out from late this year, alongside new conservation and education facilities, including a marine mammal conservation centre and an expanded giant panda exhibition hall.
January 2027 will mark both Ocean Park's 50th birthday and the 30th anniversary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, making next year a particularly significant one, the secretary said. He thanked generations of park staff and the public for their support.