Council is pleased to announce that the Hokitika Swimming Pool will reopen to the public on Monday 28 September 2026 following strong progress on the pool heating upgrade project.
The heating upgrade has remained a priority for Council, with work progressing well to ensure the pool can reopen as soon as possible with a more sustainable and affordable heating system.
The first two stages of the project have now been completed. This included general maintenance work, repairs to the pool lining, and the electrical upgrades, and pipework needed to support the new heat pump system.
Council has also advanced repairs to the pool roof, originally scheduled for next year, which are almost complete. Painting work, originally scheduled for next year, has also been brought forward to minimise future disruption to pool users and will be completed when weather conditions are more suitable.
The project has now moved into Stage Three, with installation and commissioning of the new heat pump system set to begin on 7 September. Contractors have been able to bring this work forward, creating a better outcome for pool users.
While Council had considered reopening the pool from the second week of September, the accelerated heat pump installation means the pool can now reopen without needing to close again for commissioning later in the year.
The final stage of the project will take place in February 2027 and includes installation and commissioning of the new air handling unit, along with completion of the roof painting. As these works are external, they will not require the pool to close.
Council thanks the community for its patience and understanding since the pool was temporarily closed on 1 May 2026 due to the unsustainable increase in fuel costs and looks forward to welcoming swimmers back on 28 September.