Construction of Gisborne’s Kiwa Pools now underway

Gisborne District Council has advised that with final details of its contract between with design and build company Apollo Projects confirmed, construction of its Kiwa Pools aquatic and recreation centre is now underway.

Advising that the pool complex will be an “amazing multi-purpose facility that we can all be very proud of”, Gisborne Mayor Rehette Stoltz stated “the design is not only stunning, it reflects the significance of the whakapapa of where the pool sits. The functionality of the design meets the aspirations of our many sporting and recreation communities and provides a world-class facility, one that will be enjoyed by everyone.”

The facility will feature a modern indoor multi-use 50m pool with moveable floor, leisure pool, learn-to-swim/hydrotherapy pool, cafē, and a birthday party room.

The name Kiwa Pools has been gifted to the complex by partners Ngāi Tāwhiri hapū.

Ngāi Tāwhiri representative Thelma Karaitiana says Kiwa Pools and its branding reflects Ngāi Tāwhiri and Rongowhakaata hapū, and the story of the land where the pool is located.

Karaitiana advised “calling it Kiwa Pools reflects the history and traditions of the people of Turanganui-a-Kiwa. Visitors immersing themselves in the setting will be surrounded by contemporary artistic and design excellence.”

A blessing led by the people of Ngāi Tāwhiri was held on the morning of 2nd August before construction commenced at the Churchill Park site.

The New Zealand Government has funded $40 million for the pool redevelopment through its Crown Infrastructure Partners (CIP) Covid-19 response. Council has committed $5.65 million to the project.

The complex is due to be opened to the public in March 2023.

Image: The concept for the new Kiwa Pools. Credit: Gisborne District Council.