Wizarding World of Harry Potter opens

Excited fans arrive at the opening of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Photo / Supplied

Harry Potter stars joined with thousands of enthusiastic fans to officially open the new Wizarding World theme park at Universal Studios - where even Muggles are welcome.

The park is the third Wizarding World of Harry Potter, following launches in Orlando and Osaka. Like the others, it includes a faithful recreation of the village of Hogsmeade with a towering Hogwarts Castle.

Hogwarts Castle at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Photo / Supplied

For its latest incarnation in Hollywood, Harry Potter stars Warwick Davis (Professor Flitwick), Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy), Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood), and James and Oliver Phelps (Fred and George Weasley) were on hand to open the park with Universal Studios Hollywood's president, Larry Kurzweil.

Thousands of enthusiastic fans dressed in robes and their favourite Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry house colours to be among the first to experience the attraction.

And most importantly, the park has the approval of the author herself.

"I am delighted to see 'The Wizarding World of Harry Potter' brought to life in a way that is so close to what I imagined when writing the books," said J.K. Rowling.

"I'm thrilled that Harry Potter fans can now experience the wonderful immersive experience created at Universal Studios Hollywood."

Within the Wizarding World, the Flight of the Hippogriff opens as Universal Studios Hollywood's first outdoor roller coaster.

Guests can also enjoy authentic Harry Potter cuisine at the Three Broomsticks, Hog's Head Pub and a number of butterbeer carts.

- nzherald.co.nz