Katikati’s upgraded Dave Hume Pool will open on Monday (22 December) for an extended summer season, with a new learn to swim pool, outdoor gym and a fresh line-up of classes and activities.
The main 33.3m pool has been reconfigured to create two pools – a 25m pool and a new 7m learn to swim pool, which will run at a warmer temperature and enable the pools to stay open for longer, from October until July each year.
A disability hoist has been added to the main pool to improve accessibility, all the pools have been relined, a new and safer sand filtration system has been installed, and the changing rooms and reception areas have been refurbished.
An outdoor fitness area has also been created to provide wellness opportunities. It is the first location outside of Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch to have this leading-edge equipment.
A blessing and ribbon cutting were held today (Wednesday 17 December), ahead of Monday’s 10am opening, attended by tangata whenua from Te Rereatukahia Marae, Western Bay Mayor James Denyer, Council staff, and representatives from Bay Venues, Dave Hume Pool Trust, Filtration and Pumping Commercial (FPC), Beca and Veros.
Mayor James says the upgraded pool complex reflects years of hard work and a shared commitment to investing in Katikati’s future.
“Seeing this upgrade come to life is a real win for Katikati. This is a space where people of all ages can come together, stay active, learn new skills and simply enjoy being part of a community. It’s great to see local passion and long-term vision turning into something that will benefit families for years to come.”
The upgrade follows many years of the Dave Hume Swimming Pool Trust developing the concept of an enclosed pool, with a new liner system to reduce painting costs and frequency.
The roof project to enclose the pool was factored into Western Bay of Plenty District Council's 2021-2031 Long Term Plan, but due to escalating costs Council agreed in October 2024 to focus their attention on a bulkhead, pool upgrades and a new liner system.
The $2.5m improvements have been funded through existing budgets from the 2023/24 financial year, together with Dave Hume Pool Trust funding. The Trust contributed $65,000 from their own funds, and sourced a further $655,000 from external funders, TECT ($400,000), the New Zealand Lottery Grants Board ($250,000) and the Lions Club of Katikati ($5000).
Janine Field, Council’s Reserves and Facilities Assets Manager, says it has been a privilege to be involved in the project and thanked the Trust for their vision and determination.
“I want to acknowledge the Trust’s 30 years of volunteer dedication. I’m sure the community will enjoy the upgraded facilities — a place to have fun, improve your health, be included, and for tamariki to learn to swim safely.”
The pool complex will be operated by Bay Venues, who have been awarded the service delivery contract for the next four years, with a two-year, performance-based extension.
Nora Moeke, who is leading Dave Hume Pool as the Assistant Aquatic Manager, is excited for the new season. She says she's ready to connect with the community, help shape a growing team and dive into the rich history of the pool and its people.
“Fun community events and family days are planned for the pool this summer, including a pool party in late January. A range of BaySwim classes will also be launching in early 2026,” she says.
Lifeguard and aquatic shift leader Jordan Nicholson grew up in Katikati and learned to swim at the Dave Hume Pool.
“Dave Hume was where I learned to swim when I was super young. I started taking lessons at the pool when I was five, then I trained with Surf Life Saving and Dave Hume was our base,” she says.
Having returned from her ‘OE’ in August, she is excited to take on her new role at the pool.
“Your heart feels quite content when you’re working for your community.”
Bella Bryant, who has worked at the Dave Hume Pool as a lifeguard for three seasons, is equally excited for the summer season ahead.
Bella grew up in Katikati and spent many hot days swimming at the Dave Hume Pool with her friends, family and her school.
“I learned how to swim there, and I enjoy the community feel and knowing everyone’s names,” she says.
“I feel like it’s a sense of giving back in a way. I like keeping a connection to the community and seeing everyone.”
