Greerton Aquatic & Leisure Centre: Temporary venue closure from Monday 16 September
Tauranga Pools

Ōtūmoetai Pool Investigation

Our goal is to ascertain the ongoing operational viability of this community facility.

Tauranga City Council and Bay Venues, in collaboration with community representatives, are actively investigating concerns surrounding the deteriorating condition of Ōtūmoetai Pool.

Formation of a Working Group

Council recommended that we establish a dedicated working group to investigate the pool’s future in collaboration with the local community.

In April, this group was formed comprising of Council and Bay Venues staff, members of the Ōtūmoetai community, representatives from EVO Swimming Club, Ōtūmoetai College, and an external aquatic expert.

This diverse team brings together a wealth of knowledge and perspectives to guide our efforts in monthly meetings, and community representatives reports back findings to the wider community.

Working Group Key Actions and Agreements

Since the formation of the working group, we have made significant progress:

  • Terms of Reference Agreed: The working group has finalised and agreed upon the terms of reference, outlining our objectives and the framework for this work.

  • Geotechnical Investigation Scope Defined: We have agreed on the scope for a geotechnical investigation, which is essential for understanding the underlying conditions affecting the pool’s structure. This investigation will soon commence.

  • Intrusive Condition Assessment Work Scope: The scope for further on-site investigative work has been agreed upon, ensuring a comprehensive approach to identifying all potential issues and solutions.

  • Operational Options for Further Investigation: A range of options for further investigation has been identified. This step is crucial as it allows us to explore various operational avenues and determine the most effective ongoing solution.

Working Group Meeting Minutes

Notes from August Meeting:

Final Condition Assessment: The working group discussed and approved the draft condition assessment, which has now been finalised. The working group noted that it is important that this is viewed alongside the final geotech report. They both need to be considered together to determine the best way forward. Click here to access the final condition assessment.

Aquatics Network Plan Overview: Ross Hudson (TCC) presented a high-level overview of the Aquatics Network Plan which was completed in 2020. Click here to view the presentation. Click here to view the key takeaways.

Draft Stage 1 Update on Geotech: James Griffiths (Beca) gave a presentation on historical information and assumptions made on that basis (noting this is the first stage of the geotech review and more information won’t be available until after a few months of monitoring). Click here to view the presentation. Click here to view the key takeaways.

Pre-Working Group

Prior to the Working Group, to support the community conversation about the future of a pool in Ōtūmoetai, an information pack was prepared that includes current pools usage, condition assessments, budgets and more. You can download the information pack here.

Current Status

With the formation of the Working Group, our focus is on gathering more detailed information to inform our decisions moving forward. This approach ensures that any action taken is based on solid evidence and is in the best interest of our community, and our city as a whole.

We are committed to keeping the community informed throughout this process. We look forward to sharing further updates as our investigation progresses. If you have any questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Contact Information

For any inquiries or feedback, please contact feedback@bayvenues.co.nz.

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