Westland District Council has unanimously approved the temporary closure of the Hokitika Swimming Pool from 1 May 2026, for an estimated period of three to six months, while operational costs are addressed and upgrade works progress.
The decision follows a report to Council outlining the significant and unsustainable increase in diesel costs required to heat the pool.
Mayor Lash said Council carefully considered the role the pool plays in the community alongside the financial reality facing the district.
“We know how important the pool is to our community. It supports wellbeing, recreation, and connection, and this is not a decision we wanted to make.
“But we also need to be realistic about the cost. If we continue operating under current conditions, it will come at the expense of other services. That’s not a position we can responsibly put our community in.”
Council heard that casual public use during winter drops to approximately 11–20 users per day, with additional participation through organised programmes such as swim school and classes, while operating costs continue to increase significantly due to rising diesel prices.
General Manager District Assets, Erle Bencich, confirmed that alternative options had been considered, including future electricity pricing and solar generation.
“Electric heating has been factored into the upgrade planning, including previous national electricity supply pressures. Solar was also considered; however, it would not generate sufficient power to meet the facility’s needs.”
The pool typically closes for approximately one month each year to allow for scheduled maintenance. This period will now be incorporated into the extended closure to ensure the facility is ready to reopen as soon as practicable.
Mayor Lash said there is no quick fix.
“There is no simple answer here. We will continue to monitor fuel prices and progress the heating upgrade, with the goal of reopening the facility as soon as it is financially sustainable to do so.
“We recognise this is a loss of an important community asset in the short term, and we appreciate the community’s understanding as we work through this.”
Council will keep the community updated on progress, including the timing of the heating upgrade and any decisions regarding reopening.