Swimming and Spa Pools
We want everyone to have fun around swimming pools and that includes staying safe.
Preventing children from drowning is the reason why safety standards are in place and making sure correct barriers/fences are in place is one way of doing this.
New rules
In January 2017 a new set of rules were introduced to New Zealand with specific responsibilities being placed on pool owners and councils.
Since September 2017, manufacturers and retailers must supply notices with pools informing customers that the pool must have barriers that restrict access by young children.
Safety
We can all take a few simple steps to make sure we minimise the risk to our children. For example, if you have a paddling pool at home, please make sure you empty it after use. If you have a more permanent pool at home (spa, hot tub or a swimming pool which can hold 400mm or more of water), you must make sure it has an appropriate barrier to stop a child entering it unsupervised.
What is an appropriate barrier?
New pool safety legislation came into effect on 1 January 2017.
The Building (Pools) Amendment Act 2016 repeals the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987 and includes new provisions in the Building Act 2004 relating to residential pools.
Click HERE for more information about safety barriers.
Building Consent
You will need to apply for a building consent for a new swimming or spa pool.
Important Note:
All pools including spa pools must be registered with Waimate District Council.
