The opening of the highly awaited Super Mario theme park in Japan has been delayed again as the nation fights against a surge in Covid-19 cases.

Nintendo’s theme park was due to open in July 2020 ahead of the Tokyo Olympics. It was originally delayed because of the outbreak of the pandemic and rescheduled to open in February 2021.

Following the Japanese government’s decision to extend a virus state of emergency to Osaka after the number of positive Covid-19 cases surged in the area, the opening of the theme park has been delayed for a second time.

In a statement, Universal Studios Japan said: “We sincerely apologise for the trouble caused to guests… who were looking forward to the opening. The opening date will be decided and announced after the state of emergency is lifted.”

The Super Mario theme park features a real-life Bowser’s Castle. An interactive Mario Kart ride is another key attraction at the amusement site.