The four Auckland Council owned and operated pools being added to the list are: Tepid Baths, West Wave Pool and Leisure Centre, Albany Stadium Pool, and Manurewa Pool and Leisure Centre.
Auckland pre-schoolers aged three months to five years will have access to half price swimming and water safety lessons at all eight sites.
Councillor Penny Hulse, Chair of the Council’s Environment and Community Committee, says working with organisations like Plunket and YMCA is a great example of Auckland Council partnering with the non-profit sector to support community initiatives.
“Being safe around water – whether it’s a pool, at the beach or river – is essential to living an active life in Auckland. This partnership will equip our young people with the knowledge and skills to be safe and survive in and around water.”
Auckland Council’s Head of Active Recreation Rob McGee says jumping on board the initiative was a no-brainer.
“This partnership with YMCA and Plunket gives us a great opportunity to reach more young Aucklanders and their families to ensure the whole whānau knows how to swim and are educated on basic water safety skills.”
Another five council pools will be brought into the fold over the next three years.
“I’ll be training and educating all Auckland Council pool staff to ensure our water safety product is consistent across all eight sites. If a family goes to Cameron Pool or any other site they’ll get the same level of service and education. Consistency is key,” says McCaughan.
“Together we are helping shape a more water-safety aware Auckland.”
