South Waikato Indoor Pools Upgrade
The South Waikato District Council will reopen as the South Waikato Aquatics Centre on 3 October 2026, following a 19-month long project to regenerate the 30-year-old facility.
The $17 million upgrade, which came in on budget and on time, was included as a major project in the SWDC Long Term Plan 2024-34, with work beginning in February 2025.
Previously known as South Waikato Indoor Pools, the facility has adopted a new name, South Waikato Aquatics Centre, to better reflect what is now on offer to visitors.
Adults will be able to relax in the wellness area featuring a sauna, spa and plunge pool, while families have space to play between the outdoor playground and splashpad. A revamp of the old community room and an additional poolside space provide great options for gatherings and celebrations.
Refreshed changing rooms, lockers, poolside seating and showers, and staff facilities also make the list of improvements. Behind the scenes, the modern filtration and heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems promise efficiency, lower running costs, and higher-quality water and air.
Latest News
- 15 September | South Waikato Aquatics Centre to Reopen After Major Upgrade
- 12 June, 2026 | Progress Update: South Waikato Indoor Pools
- 20 April, 2026 | Progress Update: South Waikato Indoor Pools
- 30 Jan, 2026 | Progress Update: South Waikato Indoor Pools
- 20 Nov, 2025 | Progress Update: South Waikato Indoor Pools
- 20 Aug,2025 | Progress Update: South Waikato Indoor Pools
- 10 June, 2025 | Progress Update: South Waikato Indoor Pools
FAQs
What improvements are being made?
The upgrades will include:
- A new, modern and cost-effective filtration system.
- Bigger pipes to cater for increased flows, thus increasing the pool turnover rate.
- Flooring: Non-Slip flooring in and outside the pools.
- Installation of a new HVAC.
- New acoustic ceiling panels suitable for a swimming pool environment.
- New LED lights.
- Complete overhaul of the existing electrical systems.
- Upgraded fire system.
- Splash Pad – An area for family fun while building children’s confidence around water.
- Sauna & Plunge Pool – Accommodating new users, athletes and rehabilitation options into our facility.
- Facelift to the outside area and a new playground.
- Additional party room.
- Upgraded external playground.
- Face lift to outside area.
- Additional family disabled and elderly changing rooms.
- Additional shower and toilet facilities.
- A welcoming entrance.
- Non-Slip flooring in and outside the pools.
- Additional changing rooms for families/disabled and the elderly.
- Additional showers and toilet facilities
- Community Room – We will have an additional community room to accommodate more birthday parties, meetings and functions.
How much will the project cost?
The project is costing $17m, which has been budgeted for as part of the Long Term Plan for 2024-34.
Why are the pools closing?
The pools are closing for a major upgrade and renewal to improve facilities and enhance the overall experience for visitors, making it safer and more user friendly. The essential works are required to future-proof the facility, which the community risked losing if work wasn’t committed to.
When did the work start and how long will it take?
Work at the facility began in February 2025 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
How will the closure affect swimming lessons and other programmes?
We will run our programmes across 7 days a week instead of 5 due to smaller numbers in the classes.
How can I stay updated throughout the project?
You can:
- Follow us on social media
- Check our website for regular updates
- Subscribe to our newsletter
Get in touch
Phone: 07 885 0340 (Customer Service Team)
Email: janice.eland@southwaikato.govt.nz.
You can also visit our Facebook page for updates.
