Waikato District Council is inviting the community to share their thoughts on its draft Community Pools Strategy to help shape how local swimming pools are managed, improved, and used in the years ahead.
With three Council-owned community pools throughout the district which includes outdoor pools in Tuakau and Ngaaruawaahia and an indoor heated pool in Huntly, Anthony Averill, Deputy General Manager, Service Delivery at Waikato District Council says the draft strategy outlines a proposed direction for community swimming pools across the district.
“We want to know if the direction and goals outlined in the draft strategy align with what our communities think are important or whether we need to make changes to better reflect local needs.
“Our goal is to create a well-connected, accessible, and future-ready network of pools that meet the diverse needs of our growing communities, and this is your opportunity to help ensure we’re investing wisely and planning effectively for the future.”
Community swimming pools across the district are valued assets, supporting physical activity, social connection, mental wellbeing, and community events.
“As our population grows and expectations shift, it’s vital we understand what people want from these spaces and how they should evolve.
“This includes potential upgrades to facilities and infrastructure, improved access to services and programmes, and opportunities to explore partnerships that better support community wellbeing.”
While there’s no legal requirement for the Council to consult on this strategy, the feedback process ensures that Council’s plans reflect the priorities and aspirations of its communities.
“Feedback will directly inform the conditions of future contracts with facility providers, meaning the community’s voice plays a key role in deciding what gets prioritised, where investment goes, and how our community swimming pools are developed and maintained.”
The feedback period will take place from Monday 12 May until Monday 14 July. View the document and submit feedback here.
