First thematic marine park visitor centre officially opens (with photos)

     The first thematic marine park visitor centre in Hong Kong, the Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park Visitor Centre (the Centre), opened today (June 8). The Centre is located in Sai Kung West Country Park, adjacent to Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park. The opening ceremony was officiated by the Secretary for the Environment, Mr Wong Kam-sing; the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation, Dr Leung Siu-fai; and the Director of Architectural Services, Ms Winnie Ho.
 
     Under the management of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), the Centre is a hub disseminating information of other attractions in the surroundings of Hoi Ha and introducing the progress of ecological studies conducted by the AFCD in various marine parks and a marine reserve, with the aim of raising public understanding of the functions and management of marine parks and public awareness on marine conservation.
 
     An AFCD spokesman said, "Visitors can take part in an interactive display 'Into the Sea', where virtual reality (VR) technology is applied for visitors to explore the underwater world of marine parks. Another display 'Hoi Ha Coastal Safari' in augmented reality (AR) features the rich marine biodiversity in Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park."
 
     The spokesman said that the exhibition hall in the Centre displays information about marine park management, conservation measures, marine ecology, the history of Hoi Ha, and marine threats for educational purposes. Guided tours and workshops will also be arranged in the future, subject to the development of the epidemic situation.
 
     The Centre also adopts a number of green features, including installation of solar photovoltaic panels, a rainwater collection system and a bio-treatment plant, showcasing efforts in carbon reduction as well as minimising the impact on nature. The Centre has been awarded with several prizes including the President's Prize of the Hong Kong Institute of Architects Annual Awards 2019/20 in recognition of its excellence in architectural design. 
 
     For details, please visit the AFCD website: www.afcd.gov.hk/english/country/cou_vis/cou_vis_mar/cou_vis_mar_vc/cou_vis_mar_vc.html.