Tararua District Council and the Bush Aquatic Trust are working together to address a significant funding gap for the proposed Pahiatua aquatic facility, following an updated project estimate that has increased from a $6.1 million initial concept price tag, to approximately $7.2 million.

The revised estimate comes after the completion of detailed design work and a full procurement process, which has provided a clearer understanding of the true cost of delivering the facility. The increase is primarily due to higher construction-related costs, including fuel, concrete, materials, labour, and other market-driven pricing changes.

Throughout the detailed design and procurement process, Council and Bush Aquatic Trust have worked closely with the project team to identify opportunities to reduce costs while maintaining a functional, fit-for-purpose facility. Despite these efforts, the project still faces a funding shortfall due to increased construction costs.

Bush Aquatic Trust has already raised an impressive $2.7 million towards the project, while Council has committed $2.5 million towards construction – subject to the Trust securing the remaining funding required to complete the facility. Council also previously contributed $600,000 towards the design and tender phase of the project.

Together, Council and Bush Aquatic Trust are focused on giving the project every opportunity to succeed, with the Trust now undertaking a final fundraising push to secure the additional $2 million needed to make the project viable.

Mayor Scott Gilmore said the situation was deeply disappointing for everyone involved, particularly given the extraordinary effort already made by the Trust and the wider community.

“The Bush Aquatic Trust has achieved something extraordinary. Raising $2.7 million for a community project is a remarkable effort and reflects years of dedication, generosity and hard work from volunteers and supporters across Pahiatua.

That is why this situation is so disappointing, especially for the many people who have worked tirelessly to bring this project to life. After getting so close to the finish line, we are now facing a significant funding shortfall that nobody anticipated when the original estimates were prepared.”

“It’s important to be clear that this situation is not the result of anyone doing anything wrong. Bush Aquatic Trust has delivered an outstanding fundraising effort, and Council has followed a robust and proper process. The reality is that construction costs across New Zealand have risen significantly since this project was first estimated, and that is what has created the gap we now need to work through together”, says Chief Executive Corin Haines.

Council noted that construction costs are expected to continue increasing over time. Any significant delay in securing the remaining funding is likely to result in further cost increases, which could increase the overall project cost and place additional pressure on the funding required to deliver the facility.

Council acknowledged the strong community support for the project, which was demonstrated during consultation for the 2024-2034 Long Term Plan, where a majority of submitters favoured Council investing in the development of the new indoor pool.

At the same time, Council recognised the repeated community message that affordability and keeping rates increases as low as reasonably possible remain a priority for ratepayers across the Tararua District.

Council will continue to support the Trust as it explores funding opportunities to close the remaining funding gap. If sufficient funding cannot be secured, the viability of the project will need to be reconsidered. Any future provision of swimming facilities in Pahiatua would be subject to a future Council decision, with options considered alongside the community through future planning processes.

Further information, including a detailed set of frequently asked questions, are available here  New Pahiatua Swimming Pool | Tararua District Council

ENDS.