'Ocean Park Future Remains Murky Despite Govt Aid'

Ocean Park said on Thursday that the future of the theme park remains uncertain even after a multi-billion-dollar handout from the government in May, because it was able to open for only about 50 days so far this year amid the coronavirus epidemic.

The theme park was earlier this year given HK$5.4 billion in aid by the government to stay afloat for another year and implement a revamp to shore up its visitor numbers.

Chairman Lau Ming-wai said despite the government help, the park may ultimately have to close down anyway. But it's still too early to decide the park's future at this point.

He said both he and CEO Ysanne Chan are only around for a year, but they hope to find a way out for the troubled park.

Chan noted that during the short periods when the park was allowed to open this year, attendance and revenue have dropped by 90 percent compared with last year, adding to the financial woes facing Ocean Park.

She said staff have been asked to take unpaid leave, but they won't be laid off because the park has applied for government funding under the Employment Subsidy Scheme.

Lau said the park has been looking at different pricing models, such as a pay-as-you-go model where visitors pay for each ride. But the final decision rests with the government which is conducting a review on the park.

To cater to locals because of the absence of mainland and foreign visitors, Ocean Park said Hong Kong residents will enjoy a 65 percent discount for a regular visit, at HK$320 each, from the park's reopening until the end of this year.

It's also offering an unlimited entry pass for adults at HK$498 for six months from October.

The park is expected to reopen soon thanks to a drop in local Covid-19 cases. Its latest shutdown was ordered in July during the third wave of the outbreak.

As for new attractions, Ocean Park said a water park will open next year after it's completed in December.

It also plans to offer a "Green Staycation" plan for visitors. Those going on the park's hiking trials for the first time can also choose to camp and do yoga at the park.