Napier City Council moves forward with new aquatic facility plans

Napier City Council has approved the scope for tender for its new aquatic facility, with Councillors yesterday voting 7/6 in favour of proceeding with the project.

The tender for construction of the landmark Napier development will be advertised in mid-May, and it is anticipated that Council will consider the award of the tender in July.

Advising that construction is expected to begin in late 2019 with an opening date in very early 2022, Napier City Council Chief Executive, Wayne Jack stated “this decision marks the beginning of an exciting development for Napier City and all users of aquatic facilities in the region.

"This has been one of our priorities for Napier for years. The journey started back in 2014 in response to community demand.

"The new aquatic facility will ensure that Napier’s sport development, leisure and play, water confidence and health and fitness services will be balanced. The design is future-proof (as) the site allows for future expansion, whether that’s due to increased user demand, population growth, or a change in community requirements.”

The new complex, which will be accessed from Tamatea Drive, will have a 25-metre lap pool with room to expand to 50 metres in the future if necessary. It will also have a dedicated learn to swim pool, a hydrotherapy pool, play pool, two hydroslides (waterslides), gymnasium, spin room, café, birthday party room, outdoor playground and outdoor water play area.

Users will benefit from the hydrotherapy pool, an option not currently provided for at the existing Onekawa Aquatic Centre, more space in the learn to swim and spa pools and an extra four lanes in the lap pool.

Napier City Council is working closely with groups and clubs who will be using the facility to ensure their needs are addressed in the detailed design work.

For further information go to www.napier.govt.nz/napier/projects/napier-aquatic-centre-redevelopment/

Image shows a visualisation of the new Centre.