Tauranga is growing, and our current aquatic facilities are struggling to keep up. To meet the needs of our community now and in the future, we’re planning a new aquatic facility at Memorial Park.

Have your say on the Memorial Park Aquatic Centre.

The survey closed at 5pm, 8 November 2024.

This project is significant with an original budget set aside of $124 million, however we are now considering options with a reduced budget of $80 to $105 million. We want to hear from you before we make any final decisions.

Why are we doing this?

Our goal is to provide aquatic spaces that serve the needs of our community. Whether it's fitness, learn to swim, hydrotherapy, or simply having fun in the water. Aquatic facilities are essential for creating healthier, happier, and more connected communities.

Our current pools are at capacity, and we need to decide how best to invest in new facilities that meet diverse needs while being practical and cost-effective. That’s where you come in.

What are your priorities?

We want to understand what’s most important to you in a new aquatic centre. There are trade-offs to consider and your feedback will help us make decisions that reflect the community’s priorities.

For example, a 50m pool is great for water sports and competitive swimming:

Temperature and depth: A 50m pool would be 2m deep with a water temperature of 27°C - perfect for training and events but less suited to activities like hydrotherapy or learn-to-swim programs.
Single pool use: If we build a 50m pool, we wouldn’t be able to provide separate pools for learn-to-swim, hydrotherapy, or programs that need warmer water and shallower depths but we may be able to host more aquatic events.

Alternatively, multiple pools of varying sizes allow for more dedicated spaces for different activities:

Dedicated Spaces: separate pools for learn-to-swim, hydrotherapy, and leisure, each with the right temperature and depth for their specific use.
Wider range of uses: providing spaces for all ages and abilities, we can serve a larger portion of the community, from families to older adults needing warm water for therapy and relaxation.

What matters most to you?

As we refine our plans, we want to know what the community values most.

Is it the ability for increased water sport with a 50m pool? Or do you see greater value in a more flexible aquatic centre that offers a range of activities for everyone?

Or, would you prefer to see these funds used to reduce Council’s debt, or any savings reinvested in facilities like walking tracks, playgrounds, or community centres?

Let us know what matters most to you.