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The milestone allows greatly enhanced viewing of Wang Wang and Funi following the quarantine period during which they were seen behind plate-glass windows.

The pandas had been confined to their day rooms and off limits areas since their arrival in Adelaide a little over a month ago.

The naturally landscaped outdoor areas, now being enjoyed by Wang Wang and Funi, are equipped with misting systems, chilled rocks and waterfalls to ensure the pandas are content - and cool - over South Australia’s summer months.

The Federal Minister for Climate Change and Water, Senator Penny Wong will today signal keepers (by radio telephone) to open the door between the indoor and outdoor enclosures.

It has been heartening to see the people of Adelaide so warmly welcome these two delightful new residents,” Senator Wong said

“Zoos SA, in cooperation with other leading zoos, plays a crucial role in raising public awareness about issues such as conservation and climate change.’’

Zoos SA president, Heather Caddick, predicts a surge in the already “very strong” visitor numbers now that the outdoor areas are in use.

"It is very exciting that people can now see Wang Wang and Funi exploring their Chinese habitat; and we are thrilled that they are proving such effective environmental and conservation ambassadors to the many thousands who have already visited Adelaide Zoo."

Mrs Caddick said she expected attendances to be boosted even further when the new Frome Road entranceway was completed in February.

Wang Wang and Funi were officially welcomed to Australia by the Governor General Quentin Bryce on December 13.