Katikati's Upgraded Dave Hume Pool Opens for Summer

Katikati's Dave Hume Pool has reopened after a major upgrade, welcoming the community with a new learn-to-swim pool, a refurbished main pool, and a brand-new outdoor fitness area. The original 33.3m pool has been reconfigured into a 25m lap pool and a separate 7m learn-to-swim pool that runs at a warmer temperature, allowing the facility to remain open from September through to May each year.

The $2.5 million upgrade also included a disability hoist on the main pool, relining of all pools, a new sand filtration system, and refreshed changing rooms and reception spaces. The outdoor gym is the first of its kind outside Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Funding came from Western Bay of Plenty District Council's existing budgets, the Dave Hume Pool Trust ($65,000 of their own funds plus $655,000 sourced externally from TECT, the NZ Lottery Grants Board, and the Lions Club of Katikati).

A blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony were held prior to opening, attended by tangata whenua from Te Rereatukahia Marae, Western Bay Mayor James Denyer, WBOPDC staff, and representatives from Bay Venues and partner organisations. Mayor Denyer said the upgraded complex reflected years of hard mahi and a shared commitment to investing in Katikati's future, praising the trust's 30 years of volunteer dedication.

The pool is now operated by Bay Venues under a four-year contract. Assistant aquatic manager Nora Moeke said fun community events, family days, and a pool party in late January are planned, with Bay Swim classes also launching in early 2026. The pool reopened on Wednesday 17 December; entry fee and opening hours can be found at www.taurangapools.co.nz/public-pools/davehumepool-katikati.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).