New Pahiatua Swimming Pool

Pahiatua’s making a splash with plans for a new indoor aquatic facility!

The current Pahiatua outdoor pool is nearing its end-of-life cycle, has hefty maintenance costs, and is limited to a 10-week, weather dependent swim season which limits its capabilities.

Collaborating with Bush Aquatic Trust, the provision of a new indoor aquatic facility for Pahiatua has been discussed and investigated over the past decade.

The proposed indoor aquatic facility is seen as a long-term solution that could cater for future growth in our district. The proposed facility isn’t just a pool; the ‘Sprung swimming pool’ design is a year-round hub for swim education, from school programs to private lessons. The pool will operate as a programmed swimming pool, which will also reduce the operating cost.

With community needs and future growth in mind, this project is an exciting opportunity for Pahiatua and its surrounding communities.

What you told us

There were 410 submitters to the Long-Term Plan 2024-2034 consultation that expressed an opinion on the two options put forward relating to the Pahiatua Pool. A significant majority of submissions favoured Council investing in the development of a new indoor aquatic facility for Pahiatua. This support came from an identification of the need that was lacking in the community, particularly with the damages and restricted seasonal use of the current swimming pool.

What was decided?

Following the hearing of submissions, the Council chose to support the development of the indoor aquatic facility and provide no further financial support to the repairs of the existing swimming pool.

Pahiatua Pool Concept Design

Pahiatua Pool concept design

Funding

The new indoor aquatic facility comes with a $6.1 million funding target. Council will be funding $2.5 million of this project accounted for in the Long-Term Plan 2024-2034, subject to design and funding.

Council has already contributed $600,000 to get the project through the design and tender phases.

It is expected that Council will take over the ownership of this asset upon completion.

Next steps

  • Bush Aquatic Trust are continuing to fundraise
  • Bush Aquatic Trust are reaching out to the community to see if there is any way they can assist. There are opportunities such as contributing to earthmoving and related services
  • Contractor engaged to deliver and construct pool

Timeline of works (subject to change):

  • March 2026
    • Detailed design finalised
    • New building consent
    • Contract negotiation and finalisation
  • April 2026 – Delivery and construction begins
  • January 2027 – Project closure and handover

To keep up to date with Bush Aquatic Trust’s fundraising efforts, check out their Facebook page here Facebook

FAQs

The existing outdoor pool is nearing the end of its life, incurs high maintenance costs, and operates only during a limited summer season. A new indoor facility will provide a reliable, year-round space for residents of all ages. Strong community support was shown during the Long-Term Plan 2024-2034 consultation.

The project is a partnership between Tararua District Council and the Bush Aquatic Trust. The Council and the Trust are working closely with a preferred contractor to finalise design details and construction pricing.

  • The total target funding for the project is $6.1 million.
  • Council has contributed $600,000 for design and tender phases and accounted for $2.5 million in its Long-Term Plan.
  • Bush Aquatic Trust has raised significant funds and continues to fundraise for the remaining amount.

Construction is expected to begin this year, following completion of design and finalisation of construction pricing.

  • Provide a year-round swimming facility
  • Support water safety education and school programmes
  • Enable competitive club swimming and private lessons
  • Offer therapeutic and recreational use for all age groups

These benefits support both current community needs and future growth.