Stay cool, have fun, and keep fit this summer at Christchurch’s outdoor pools.

First published on 13 November 2023 on Newsline

From Saturday 18 November, the Norman Kirk Memorial pool in Lyttelton, the Templeton summer pool, the Waltham summer pool, and Jellie Park summer pool in Burnside will all be open. Te Hāpua Halswell summer pool opens a day later on Sunday 19 November.

Paddling pools in Scarborough, New Brighton and the Botanic Gardens opened on Saturday 21 October, with paddling pools in Spencer Park, Edgar Macintosh Park, Avebury Park, Woodham Park, and Abberley Park opening on Friday 17 November.

Christchurch City Council Head of Recreation, Sport and Events Nigel Cox says the city’s network of outdoor summer pools are popular with a lot of people in the community.

“We had over 350,000 visits to our outdoor pools last summer season - that’s almost the equivalent of one swim for every Christchurch resident - and we’re expecting even more this year with all our facilities ready to open on Show Weekend,” says Mr Cox.

The Council has a range of events and activities scheduled during the summer pool season, which runs from Saturday 18 November 2023 until Monday 1 April 2024.

“Pool parties and the Manu Competitions are back. Keep an eye on the Rec and Sport Facebook page or website for all the latest information about how to get involved.

“Visiting the local pool is great way to spend a summer’s day with friends and whanau,” says Mr Cox.

There are a range of facilities available across the Council’s five outdoor pools, including hydro slides, lane pools, toddlers’ pools, BBQ hire and picnic areas.

“Be sure to check the opening hours and sign up for the membership systems in place for the Templeton and Norman Kirk pools,” says Mr Cox.

Templeton Summer Pool operates on a membership basis – with an $80 season pass – and members can bring guests as long as they leave payment in the honesty box.

The same system applies in Lyttelton. Lifeguards will be on duty at the Norman Kirk Memorial Pool between 11.30am and 7pm, from 18 November 2023 until 28 January next year.

Check out the summer pools page on the Council website for full pricing information, opening hours, safety information and the latest on community events for each pool.