Hiccups as Disneyland throws open the doors for a trial run

Hong Kong Disneyland opened its doors to 2,000 staff members and their families in a special trial yesterday, with some saying the park is too small.

An otherwise smooth day was marred when the Winnie the Pooh ride suddenly stopped. One relative of a staff member said she was asked to get out of the cart by workers without explanation.

A Disney spokesman confirmed the ride had been interrupted but said it was not due to safety reasons. He gave no details of the incident, saying the opening was an internal Disneyland event.

The opening to Disney's staff members and their families was held to thank them for their contribution to Hong Kong Disneyland, and provided an early test of the facilities.

Some staff members said only 60 to 70 per cent of the park was opened yesterday as many attractions were still being built. The two hotels, the Hollywood Hotel and Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, 11 rides and some shows were open.

David Holts, a staff interior decorator, said he was satisfied with the facilities and decoration but thought there were too few attractions.

'Compared with other Disneylands, it is much smaller,' said Mr Holts who has worked in the Tokyo and Florida theme parks.