Strategy Aquatic Network 2012 - 2022 - Tauranga City Council
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Aquatic Network
Strategy
2 0 1 2 – 2 0 2 2
Tauranga Moana Our Place
Tauranga Tangata Our People1 Contents Introduction ........................................................................................... 2 The Vision ............................................................................................. 3 The Principles ....................................................................................... 3 Strategic Fit........................................................................................... 4 Where are we now ................................................................................ 5 Key Challenges................................................................................... 11 Goals................................................................................................... 13 Implementation Plan ........................................................................... 13 Monitoring and Review ....................................................................... 19 Appendix 1: Strategy Development Process ...................................... 21 Appendix 2: What the community has told us ..................................... 22
2
• Community and Stakeholder
Introduction A vision and principles for the provision and
use of Council owned aquatic facilities in Engagement
Why we need a new Strategy? Tauranga
Given the unique nature of aquatics and the
Aquatic facilities are unique community assets • An understanding of the unique characteristics diverse range of stakeholders were engaged with
that provide significant health, fitness and social of aquatic facilities and use and the stakeholders very early in the review process.
benefits to Tauranga’s population. The 2001 challenges these present During September 2010 two surveys were
Aquatic Strategy was developed to guide the conducted - one to gauge the general public’s
• A clear plan for the aquatics network - this will
provision of swimming pool facilities in Tauranga. response and one targeting users of the aquatic
enable Tauranga City Council to prioritise the
The development of Baywave TECT Aquatic and network. A High User Groups Forum1 was also
allocation of resources to best meet the
Leisure Centre was one of the key actions of the held to gain input from these groups. This
community’s needs.
Strategy. information fed into a Discussion Document which
The 2012-2022 Aquatics Network Strategy will was released for consultation in March 2011.
Reviewing the 2001 Aquatic Strategy has Feedback on the draft Strategy was received via
help guide Tauranga City Aquatics Limited in
provided an opportunity to reflect on the existing the 2012 Ten Year Plan public submission
managing the aquatic network. The operational
vision and objectives and to assess the process.
management structure of the Aquatic Network is
community’s aquatics needs over the next ten
set and is not considered through the Strategy -
years and to explore how these can be best met
the focus is on the provision and use of aquatic
given the current budget constraints. The review
facilities.
process involved extensive consultation with key
stakeholders and users, assessment of the A Joint Initiative
current aquatics network, research on aquatic
Tauranga’s aquatic network is owned and
participation trends and population projections and
operated by Tauranga City Aquatics Limited
consideration of Council’s budget constraints.
(TCAL). Accordingly the development of the
Together this information has resulted in the 2012-
Strategy has been a joint initiative between TCAL
2022 Aquatic Networks Strategy. The Strategy
and TCC.
provides:
1
Tauranga City Council Aquatic High User Groups
Forum held 29th September 2010, Sport Bay of Plenty
offices.3
sustainable manner2. The priority is
The Vision The Principles maximising what we currently have.
‘Active in the Pool for life… healthy, The following principles underpin the Aquatic
6. Well maintained and fit-for-purpose: The
physically active communities’ Network Strategy. Our aquatics network will
aquatics network will include well maintained
provide:
The aquatics network contributes to developing and fit-for-purpose swimming pools relevant
and supporting physically active and healthy 1. Health and well being: Participation in to the community’s needs.
communities. Water safety education is promoted aquatic activities has major benefits to the
through the development of confidence and skills physical and mental health of the individual
gained from both recreational play and learn to and hence to the community as a whole.
swim programs. Aquatic facilities promote social interaction
and act as a hub for community activities.
The essence of this vision is for Council to provide
aquatic facilities to the community because of the 2. Participation: Promote high levels of
significant health and social benefits that come participation in aquatic activity to ensure that
from being in the pool. The focus however is on the benefits are enjoyed by as many people
meeting the needs of the diverse range and age of as possible.
users and encouraging lifelong participation -
3. Safety: The Aquatics network provides a
active in the pool for life. The age range of
safe environment to participate in aquatic
users’ spans from 6 months to 80+ years and the 2
In accordance with the Council’s Revenue and Finance
activities. All pools are certified Pool Safe and
vision reflects this. The vision also pursues the Policy this does not mean totally ‘financially independent’. The
meet New Zealand water quality standards. principal beneficiaries of the Aquatic activity (and those
promotion of water safety and confidence.
contributing to the need for the activity) are the users if
4. Diversity: The aquatic opportunities
Council’s aquatic facilities. Council recognizes that there is
available in the city recognise the diverse also a wider public benefit provided by the activity by providing
preferences and needs in aquatics for the opportunity for all people to be able to learn to swim.
Tauranga’s residents.
• The majority of operating expenditure will be funded
5. Sustainability and efficiency: The through user fees and charges. The proportion is
expected to be 60% to 80% of total operating
community’s aquatic network will be operated expenditure.
in an environmentally and financially • The balance of operating expenditure will be funded
through rates.4
Strategic Fit Let’s get Active: Tauranga’s Sport and Active
Living Strategy
One of the key principles behind the ‘Let’s get
Active’ strategy is that sport and living contribute
The key drivers for the development of this The vision of the Sport and Active Living Strategy not only to the well being of individuals but create
strategy are: is to increase participation in sport and active community cohesion and identity. The strategy is
living opportunities by getting “more people founded on the belief that there are a number of
Smart Growth benefits from participating in regular sport and
more active more often”.
A growth management strategy to ensure that, as activity. These benefits are well known and
the western Bay of Plenty grows it will continue to All six goals of the strategy are relevant to the include:
be a great place to live, work and play. Aquatic Network Strategy discussion:
• A range of health benefits such as reducing
Smartspace Principles Goal 1: A wide range of sporting activities and the risk of heart disease and stroke risk,
opportunities available to all. helping combat osteoporosis, obesity and
That built facility provision and location
contributes to building and maintaining diabetes.
Goal 2: Creating pathways to enable groups and
sustainable communities and environments. individuals to reach their potential (includes • Motor skills, social skills and intellectual
players, coaches, officials, administrators and capabilities in children are all learnt through
The provision of open space and leisure
volunteers). recreation, sport and play.
opportunities will enhance the western Bay of
Plenty sense of identity and build on the unique Goal 3: Participation in sport is recognised and • Physical activity and sport provide
features of, and activities that occur within the valued opportunities for adults to develop their full
western Bay of Plenty. potential as well as providing opportunities
Goal 4: People are aware of sporting
for life long learning.
Through the provision of open space and opportunities available in our area.
facilities, provide for a range of sporting and • The self-esteem and positive self image that
active living opportunities and that the built and Goal 5: Our programmes and events motivate
result from active living and participating in
open space environment encourages and and educate people on the value of being active, sport.
motivates people to be active. and encourage participation.
Goal 6: Our environment (built and open space)
encourages and motivates people to be active in
their daily lives.5
Where are we now its unique sit and soak nature also services the
city and wider sub region. Greerton and Memorial
is carried out the facility is expected to operate
satisfactory for at least the next 10 years. The
Our current Aquatics Network Pool are local pools in Tauranga central while changing rooms and toilets are currently being
Otumoetai pool is the local pool for Tauranga refurbishment.
The aquatic network is owned and managed by a
West (Bethlehem, Otumoetai and Matua).
Council Controlled Organisation (CCO) - Under existing contracts Otumoetai Swimming
Tauranga City Aquatics Limited (TCAL). TCAL Memorial Pool is the oldest facility in the network Club and Otumoetai College have access to the
have ownership of all facilities and make all the - it opened in 1958. It is an open air pool and is pool. The swimming club has year round use
day to day operating decisions affecting the only opened during the summer season. The from 6am to 8am and 3.30pm to 8.30pm Monday
network based on an agreed annual Statement of pool is used by the Tauranga Swimming Club to Friday. Otumoetai College uses the pool
Intent approved by Tauranga City Council (TCC). and flipper ball is also played at the pool. during school hours from 9am until 3pm. Both
TCC retains ownership of the aquatics facilities’ groups are allowed five of the seven lanes during
land and makes funding decisions through the Otumoetai Pool is the second oldest pool in the
these times and the two remaining lanes are
Ten Year Plan and Annual Plan processes and network - opening in 1968. In 2003 it was
available for general public use.
receives monitoring reports from TCAL. covered by a membrane structure to allow for all
year use. An asset condition survey carried out
The aquatics network is currently made up of five on Otumoetai facility in February 2011 reports
facilities: that the facility - with the exception of the
changing rooms - is in an acceptable condition
• Baywave TECT Aquatic and Leisure Centre
considering the age of the facility. After the
• Greerton Aquatic and Leisure Centre recommended pool repair and maintenance work
• Memorial Pool
• Mount Hot Pools
• Otumoetai Pool.
Baywave is the newest facility in the network - it
opened in 2005. The other facilities are between
30 and 40 years old. Baywave is the central sub
regional facility. The Mount Hot Pools because of6
Tauranga City Council’s Network7
Table one below provides a summary description of the pools at each facility. The Greerton and Baywave facilities have a number of other features such as spas,
meeting rooms and health clubs.
Table One: TCAL Swimming Pools - Summary Description
Facility Indoor Pools Outdoor Pools
15m 18m 25m 25m Leisure Toddler 14m 25m 22.7m Active 22.7m Passive Toddler
Baywave 9 9 9 9
Greerton 9 9 9
Memorial 9 9
Otumoetai 9 9
Mount Hot Pools 9 9 98
The aquatics network is currently funded Reviewing the 2001 Aquatics Strategy To increase accessibility of flat water space
primarily by user charges with 70 per cent of Objectives The single biggest contribution to increasing flat
required funding coming from user charges and water space was the development of Baywave.
In developing goals for the 2012-2022 Strategy
30 per cent from rates funding. User charges User visitors to Baywave make up almost half of
we reviewed the objectives from the 2001
include the admission charges to the facilities, all total visits across the network - with Baywave
Aquatics Strategy. The 2001 objectives and a
lane hire charges, and charges for other services having around 400,000 user visits each year. The
brief statement on each follow:
offered at the facilities - such as use of a spa, majority of Bayswim’s learn to swim classes are
gym membership and learn to swim lessons. Part To increase the range of water based sport also held at Baywave. There are currently 1,500
of TCAL’s over riding directive from Council is to through establishing multi - use facilities students enrolled at Bayswim and around 1,000
continue to reduce the funding contribution The opening of Baywave TECT aquatic and of these have their lessons at Baywave.
required from rates. leisure centre in 2005 has provided additional However, due to the growth in both population
Swim squads and other water sport users - in space for water based sport. The following list and aquatic use we are now at the point where
addition to their entry fees also pay a lane hire represents the range of water based sport now access to water space at peak times is again
fee for the exclusive use of lane space. However, taking place in the aquatic facilities: under pressure.
two lanes are kept available for public • Aqua fit classes To increase aquatic leisure use
recreational swimmers.
• Canoe clubs Over the past seven years total visits to the
The Mount Hot Pools: An update networks’ aquatics and leisure facilities have
• Events increased by almost 100 per cent - from 438,958
The redevelopment of the Mount Hot Pools was
approved by Council in January 2009. However, • Triathlon training visits per annum in 2002/03 to 867,078 visits in
the 2009/10 year.
in March 2011 the independent commissioner • Flipper ball
refused the land use consent application for the
project. At this stage no redevelopment is • Swimming club uses
planned but the Council and TCAL will continue • Learn to swim
to look for ways to maximise the value of the Hot
Pools for users and the wider aquatics network. • Surf life saving training
• Water Polo
• Synchronised Swimming9
To ensure equity of access To consider the establishment of associated asked people if they thought Council should
Equity of access is about making pools activities such as a gym, health and fitness remain involved in the provision of an aquatics
accessible to as many as possible in our centre and crèches network and if so what type of facilities should be
community. This includes issues of accessibility Both Baywave and Greerton Pools have health provided. Of the 379 people that responded to
for those with physical or other disabilities. Many clubs. Baywave also has a crèche facility. the question on whether Council should continue
people with disabilities use the aquatics network. to provide the city’s pools 334 (88 per cent) felt
To consider synergies with commercial the Council had a role to play. The message was
Baywave has sloped entry into the wave pool for
centres, other recreational uses that swimming pools are very important and that
ease of access for people with physical
disabilities. These synergies with commercial centres and Council should be involved in the provision of
other recreational uses were considered during pools.
Another dimension of equity of access is how far the development of Baywave resulting in
away people live from a pool. Due to the number ‘Absolutely they are a vital fitness source for
Baywave being located along side Grenada Park
of pools in the network and their geographically the general public to use’
and Bayfair shopping complex.
diverse locations - the majority of the population ‘They are as important as sports halls and
live within ten kilometres of a pool. However, To raise aquatic standards to an international
grounds and libraries’
there are some pockets of new growth areas that level
are further away from a community pool. All of the pools in the community network have ‘Yes most definitely - the health and wellbeing
Pool Safe status. The ACC Pool Safe Quality of community members is essential for a
TCAL offer a range of discounts to various user happy functioning community’
Management Scheme is an independent
groups including discounted entry and
assessment of a pool’s management and The feedback indicates that there is a firm desire
membership fees to seniors and students.
operation in accordance with established industry for Council to continue to provide an aquatics
Disabled users are also eligible to receive free
standards. network. Tauranga City Council plays an
entry into the pools.
Council’s role in providing Aquatic important role in contributing towards the health
To establish a network of community pools and wellbeing of its residents through a vast
Services
This objective directly relates to the objective ‘To range of sporting and recreation opportunities.
increase accessibility of flat water space’. The A fundamental starting question for the Aquatics Aquatic facilities provide the community with a
key change over the past nine years has been Strategy was to re examine the Council’s role in healthy, low impact and socially interactive
the development of Baywave. the provision of aquatic facilities. In the recreation activity.
discussion document - released in March - we10
The City of Sydney Aquatic Facilities Table Two: Core Activities occurring
Development Strategy 2005 reports that the at Aquatic Facilities
benefits of participating in aquatic activities are Activities Definition
wide-ranging and include a number of Free Play Unstructured water fun
psychological outcomes - such as feelings of and play.
achievement and well-being as well as the Interactive Water Play Water play that requires
benefits of challenge, risk, excitement, rest, special interactive water
features and equipment -
improved health, contemplation and family
wave pools, hydroslides,
togetherness. It reports that the benefits of interactive toys.
recreation have been found to be greater from Learn to Swim Learn-to-swim
aquatics than for many other recreation pursuits. programmes, developing
This is because aquatics can be pursued: water confidence and
safety.
• by people of every age Recreational Fitness Fitness activities such as
lane swimming, aqua-
• by people at every level of ability aerobics, aqua-jogging,
aqua-walking and possibly
• alone, in formal and informal groups or in dry fitness programmes
teams and a fitness centre.
Squad and Sports Training for competitive
• at all times of the day, week and year if Training swimming and other water
appropriate facilities are available. sports.
Sports Events Competitions and events
Aquatic facilities are unique community assets
for swimming, water polo,
which contribute towards benefits for a large flipper ball and
spectrum of the community. The age range of synchronised swimming.
users of aquatic facilities is very diverse, ranging Water Therapy Use of spas, saunas and
from 6 months to 80+ years. The type of activities steam rooms for
therapeutic benefits.
undertaken across the network is also varied.
Undertaking exercises in
The core aquatic activities occurring across the water for water-based
network of pools are listed in the table below. rehabilitation.11
Facilities Strategy for Swimming New Zealand5
Key Challenges popularity. The emergence of junior sports like
flipper ball is likely to fuel the growth in other highlights some of these key trends in aquatics
Aquatic activities are extremely popular. water sports such as water polo and swimming. facilities.
Swimming is ranked the third most popular sport
Tauranga’s Growing Population • The emerging drive from health authorities
and recreation activity for adults surpassed only
for increased physical activity is increasing
by walking and gardening in the Active New Tauranga’s population is projected to grow by 15
demand for aquatic facilities. Aquatic facilities
Zealand Survey3. Over 12 months, 34.7 per cent per cent over the next ten years. With an extra
are an important part of the infrastructure
of New Zealand adults participated in swimming 20,000 people estimated to live in the city in 2022
contributing to health and well being
at least once. Among these adults, the most demand for aquatic services will also increase.
outcomes.
common locations for swimming were ‘indoors at Looking beyond the next ten years the population
a sports facility’. is projected to grow by a further 27,500 by 2031. • Significant growth in demand from the older
Therefore in twenty years the aquatics network adult market because water provides low
The most recent pool participation survey of will be servicing another 47,500 people. impact physical activity options. This
Tauranga City’s Pools4 reports that just over half
increased demand is requiring a change in
of all those surveyed used a Council pool within It is also important to look at the changing age
the mix of facilities and services offered by
the last year. Of those that had not visited a pool profile of the future population. The population
aquatic facilities to meet the needs of older
the key reasons for not doing so were that they over 65 is projected to increase by around
adults (i.e. indoor pool space with warmer
were too busy and not interested. The most 10,000 over the next ten years. A further
water and changing rooms).
popular pools to visit were Baywave and the Hot increase of almost 15,000 is expected by 2031.
Pools. The ageing population signifies a likely increased • The growing use by people with special
demand for water therapy, physical fitness, injury needs which means facilities need
The growth in aquatic activities is likely to rehabilitation and opportunities to socialise and appropriate amenities to accommodate them
continue as water sports continue to increase in interact at aquatic facilities. (i.e. ramped access and hoist access to
pools).
Changing demand for Aquatics
3
SPARC Sport and Recreation New Zealand, Sport and Facilities
Recreation Profile: Swimming Findings from the 2007/08
Active New Zealand Survey. In planning for Tauranga’s Aquatics network it is
4
Tauranga City Council Aquatics Survey 2008 by Key essential to consider the various factors 5
National Facilities Strategy for Swimming New Zealand,
Research impacting on aquatic facilities. The latest National consultation draft prepared by David Allen and James
Parkinson for SNZ Project Working Party January 2011.12
• Increasing expectations of users regarding generate sustainable levels of patronage for Making our Pools Accessible
level of service, quality of facility and retail activities such as a café.
The consultation process highlighted the
experiences when travelling away from their
• An increasingly common feature is the importance and desire for accessibility.
community or by new residents seeking
provision of ‘dry’ exercise gym facilities both Accessibility is a multi dimensional concept. It
similar experiences as available in their
in new centres and in the retrofitting of includes:
previous community
existing aquatic facilities. This is in response
• Physical access - having a pool close to
• A general decline in available lap pool time to the demand for cross training opportunities
home and being able to physically enter the
for casual use in aquatic facilities and an within the single facility and their positive
pool regardless of age or disability.
increase in programmed use of pools for a cash flow.
range of activities. These include learn to • Visible access - people knowing where the
• New aquatics facilities are being linked to
swim, swim-squads, water polo, and triathlon pools are and how to access them.
other facilities i.e. libraries, parks and or
and surf life saving training.
shopping centres. • Affordability - ensuring that the cost of using
• High performance athletes are seeking the the pool is not prohibitive to the wider
• The Ministry of Education no longer fund
highest available quality of facilities. community.
maintenance of existing school pools and do
• Move away from the traditional outdoor not generally fund new pools or replace • Information access - knowing who to contact,
rectangular swimming pools, which were those that are no longer usable. So there has where to go to get information and how to
developed throughout the 50’s, 60’s and been a degree of rationalization of school use it.
70’s, with more emphasis being given to pools which has increased demand for other
While the feedback from users touched on all
meeting a wider range of aquatic aquatic facilities.
these aspects of accessibility the majority of
participation opportunities by providing
• There is a growing awareness of risk feedback received related to physical
different bodies of water within one venue.
management and ‘whole of life’ approach to accessibility and affordability. Aquatic activities
• Creation of large complexes with several facility development and asset management. are of profound value to people with disabilities,
sport and recreation activity facilities ( often those undertaking rehabilitation programs to
both ‘wet’ and ‘dry’) sharing a common entry, overcome injuries caused by accidents and other
reception and ancillary facilities to provide a sports, and people suffering from asthma and
high level of service, economies from sharing arthritis. There is a need for the Aquatics
services, and sufficient critical mass to Strategy to address issues of accessibility.13
Improving the network for today and
the future
Goals actions to be undertaken to achieve this over the
next ten years.
The feedback received in response to the The 2001 Aquatic Strategy objectives have been
The costs associated with each of the proposed
discussion document identified many concerns refined to put together a new set of goals. These
actions are indicative only and may need to be
that the current network was not meeting the revised goals reflect the aquatics requirements of
revised as more detailed information becomes
demands of the community and various user the community over the next ten years.
available. Indicative costings are needed to
groups. Many of the existing facilities do not 1. The network of well maintained aquatic ensure that some level of budgeting can be
reflect contemporary design elements and facilities across the city provides for a range included in the ten year plan.
community needs due to their age or original of water based activities.
design limitations. Many of the comments also Many of the proposed actions involve the
reflect dissatisfaction with the allocation of pool 2. Our network of aquatic facilities encourages development of options to improve the aquatics
space and the configuration of the network. and motivates people to be active in the network. This process of developing options will
pool at every stage of their lives. provide more detailed information on the
Aquatic facilities are expensive to build and implementation costs associated with different
operate. There is a clear conflict between the 3. Aquatic facilities are accessible to all people
options. When more information on the cost and
directive of the aquatics network to reduce its regardless of their physical ability, age, benefits have been assessed - decisions can
need for rates funding and the requirement to ethnicity and physical location where then be made on whether to pursue the
provide a community resource. It is beyond the practicable.
implementation of the options.
scope of this review to examine the mandate of
4. The aquatics network will be operated in a
TCAL however these issues are currently being
safe, environmentally and financially
explored in the CCO Review.
sustainable and efficient way.
The challenge for Council is providing a network
and access for as many as is possible of the Implementation Plan
diverse users and activities within affordability
The vision, goals and principles for the 2012-
constraints for both users and ratepayers.
2022 Aquatics Strategy tell us where we want to
be with the management and use of our aquatics
network. The following section outlines proposed14
Goal 1: The network of aquatic facilities across the city provides for a range of water based activities
What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will do it? What will it cost? When will it happen?
1.1. TCAL (and/or successor) will continue to To enhance communication TCAL (and / or successor) Within TCAL’s operations budget. On going
ensure that regular aquatic user group with user groups so as to and Sport Bay of Plenty Under existing relationship
forums are conducted. These will be held continue to develop efficient agreement between TCC and
in conjunction with Sport Bay of Plenty and transparent lane allocation Sport Bay of Plenty.
as is consistent with all other sports and processes.
recreation facilities.
1.2. Investigate the location and potential To provide additional TCAL (and / or successor) Within existing resources (TCAL 2013 - 2014
partnerships with existing non Council community aquatic capacity at and TCC and TCC staff time) to carry out
owned swimming pools. The locations where required by investigation however
investigation will consider the needs of maximising existing facilities. implementation of potential
the future population, the current partnerships will incur costs.
provision of swimming pools in the area
and access required.
1.3. Investigate a fully retractable roofing To increase capacity of the TCAL (and / or successor) Within existing resources (TCAL Investigation to begin
system for the Memorial Pool facility. current network. A retractable staff time) to carry out in 2013 and
structure could retain the open investigation. The implementation implementation to
air aspect during the summer costs of such a structure are occur in 2016
months but also allow for year estimated at $1,000,000.
round use.
1.4. Investigate and develop concept plans for To consider options for TCC and TCAL (and / or Within existing resources - TCC Over the 2016 - 2020
expanding flat water space at Baywave - increasing flat water space of successor) and TCAL staff time to carry out period
Consideration of an additional 25m the network to cater for future investigation. Implementation
space. demand. initial estimate $2,700,000.
1.5. Investigate and develop options for To increase opportunities for TCC and TCAL (and / or Within existing resources - TCC Over the 2016 - 2020
enhancing the water play area at children’s water play in successor) and TCAL staff time to carry out period
Baywave. Tauranga. investigation. Implementation
estimated to be $300,000.15
Goal 2: Our network of aquatic facilities encourages and motivates people to be active in the pool at every stage of their lives
What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will do it? What will it cost? When will it happen?
2.1. Work with Tourism Bay of Plenty and To promote awareness of the TCAL (and / or successor) Within existing resources - TCAL 2012 - 2013 and then
Sport Bay of Plenty to promote aquatic network to both the local staff time. on going
facilities. community and visitors to the
region.
2.2. Investigate possible partnerships for a To encourage people to visit TCAL (and / or successor) The investigation would be within 2016
specialist rehabilitation facility at Greerton Greerton pool for rehabilitation and TCC existing resources - TCAL and
- as part of the 2012-13 Disability Strategy. and exercise purposes by TCC Staff time. However the
This investigation would also look at providing a ‘flat floor dry’ space design and implementation will
incorporating a community meeting room for activities alongside the pool. involve additional costs estimated
in any development at Greerton pool. The current Health Club is not at $120,000.
accessible by anyone with
mobility issues.
2.3. Investigate opportunities to improve usage at Memorial Pool including;
2.3.1 Investigate integrating Memorial Pool into To increase participation in TCC and TCAL (and / or Existing resources to investigate - 2015 - 2020
Memorial Park. aquatics and utilise the successor) TCC and TCAL staff time.
This would be done in conjunction with the synergies of the park and Implementation cost estimated at
park’s Management Plan action: location. $50,000.
‘Enhance and formalise entrance to
Swimming Pool to a more central point within
the facility that connects the pedestrian focus
of the park with the pool complex’.
2.3.2 Develop options for a water play area and To increase the opportunities TCC and TCAL (and / or Existing resources to investigate - 2016 - 2018
spa pools at Memorial Pool. This would also for children’s water play in successor) TCC and TCAL staff time. Design
be linked to actions in the Management Plan. Tauranga and to develop the and Implementation cost estimated
features of Memorial Park. at $700,000.16
What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will do it? What will it cost? When will it happen?
2.3.3 Provide some signage visible from Memorial To ensure the community is TCAL (and / or successor) $5,000 2013 - 2014
Pool to increase the community’s awareness aware of Memorial Pool and to and TCC
of Memorial Pool. This would be undertaken encourage use of the facility.
as part of a wider signage project for
Memorial Park
2.3.4 Provide appropriate sun shade and shelter To ensure adequate sun TCAL (and/or successor) $20,000 2013 - 2015
features at Memorial Pool. protection is provided at
Memorial pool.
Goal 3: Aquatic facilities are accessible to all people regardless of their physical ability, age, ethnicity and physical location.
What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will do it? What will it cost? When will it happen?
3.1. Undertake a disability access audit To determine current levels of TCC $4000 - $6000 for the audit. There 2012- 2013
across all pools in the network. compliance and for physical will be implementation costs
access and endeavour to involved with providing better
exceed the basic legal accessibility, if required.
requirements ahead of the
Council’s Disability Strategy to
be carried out in 2012/13.
3.2. Undertake marketing initiatives to To increase the community’s TCAL (and / or Within existing resources - TCAL’s 2012
increase the community’s awareness of awareness of the physical successor) and TCC operational budget and TCC’s
the physical accessibility features of accessibility features of communication budget.
Greerton Pool. Greerton Pool to encourage
greater participation of people
with disabilities.
3.3. Design and construct a moveable floor in To improve physical TCAL (and / or Total Cost $600 000 - some 2013
the learn to swim pool at Baywave. accessibility at Baywave Pool. successor) funding may be accessed from
other sources such as the Lotteries
Community Facilities Fund.17
What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will do it? What will it cost? When will it happen?
3.4. Continue to monitor any particular To determine what actions are TCAL (and / or Within existing resources - TCAL On going
cultural requirements for using swimming required to make the network successor) operations budget.
pools. more accessible to people of all
ethnicities.
3.5. Expand the parking requirements at the To increase the accessibility of TCC Greerton Pool/ Morland Fox park: 2012 - 2019
Greerton and Otumoetai facilities. These the Greerton and Otumoetai No additional cost to Council as
actions are included as part of existing facilities. already included in the open space
Reserve Management Plan Projects of capital programme for Morland Fox
Morland Fox Park and Bellevue Park. Park (due to commence in 2017).
Bellevue Park:
Work will be undertaken in 2011/12
to increase the amount of gravel
car parking area available at
Bellevue Park.
Goal 4: The aquatics network will be operated in a safe, sustainable and efficient way.
What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will do it? What will it cost? When will it happen?
4.1. Continue to ensure that all pools in the To ensure the aquatics network TCAL (and / or Within existing resources- TCAL On going
network comply with the current water is safe for the community. successor) operating budget.
quality systems and standards.
4.2. To incorporate all pools in the network To ensure the network operates TCAL (and / or Within existing resources -TCAL On going
into the sustainable business network. in a sustainable manner. successor) operating budget.
4.3. To continue to ensure that all pools in the To manage the risk of accident TCAL (and / or Within existing resources- TCAL On going
network have Pool Safe status. and provide a safe aquatics successor) operating budget.
network.18
What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will do it? What will it cost? When will it happen?
4.4. Indentify what other user groups could In accordance with TCAL’s TCAL (and / or Within existing resources- TCAL 2012 and on going
use the off peak time in the network – i.e. Statement of Intent ensure the successor) operating budget.
hospitals, special needs groups. existing network is maximised
by the community.
4.5. Investigate the costs and benefits and if To capture any cost savings by TCAL (and / or The investigation can be carried 2014
appropriate provide a cover for Memorial preventing heat loss when the successor) out within existing resources.
Pool. pools are not in use. However at this stage
implementation is estimated to be
$20,000.
4.6. Explore two ownership options for To investigate ways of TCAL (and / or Within existing resources. 2012 -2013
Otumoetai pool, the first being retention maintaining access and successor) and TCC
by Council and the second being vesting reducing rate payer costs
to the Otumoetai Swimming Club. associated with operating
Otumoetai Pool.19
Monitoring and Review
Progress made in achieving the Strategy’s goals and working towards the vision will be measured against the following targets. These measures will be assessed on
a three yearly basis - linking into the ten year plan process. This assessment will also indicate when a full review of the Strategy is required. A full review of the
strategy is intended to be undertaken every 5 years following adoption - or when the need arises.
Goal Measures What this measure tells us Methods
The network of well maintained aquatic • Percentage of users who rate the aquatics If we are providing an appropriate - well Annual Residents Survey.
facilities across the city provides for a facilities as either good or excellent. maintained - level of service across the Centre for Education and Recreation
range of water based activities. • Customer satisfaction rating -from aquatics net work. Management (CERM) monitor customer
customer satisfaction surveys. satisfaction and business performance.
• Number and range of water based TCAL booking schedules.
activities taking place at the pools.
Narrative.
Our network of aquatic facilities • Level of awareness of the pools in the This provides information on whether Annual Residents Survey.
encourages and motivates people to be aquatics network. people are aware of the aquatics TCAL visitor data base.
active in the pool at every stage of their • Number of visits to the aquatics network. facilities and services they provide. It
TCAL monitoring of booking schedule.
lives. • Frequency of visits to the aquatics also tells us how often people are
network. making use of the pools.
• Participation rates for each activity taking
place at the pool.
Aquatic facilities are accessible to all • Number of visits to the aquatics network Whether the aquatics network is Annual Residents Survey.
people regardless of their physical ability, by age, gender and ethnicity. accessible to as many people as CERM Survey for TCAL.
age, ethnicity and physical location where • Percentage of people coming from each practicable. Are people of all ages,
Disability Audit - linked into the Disability
practicable. residential suburb. ethnicities, physical abilities and from all
Strategy.
• Number of pools in network able to be over the city accessing the network.
accessed by people with physical Narrative.
disabilities.20
Goal Measures What this measure tells us Methods
The aquatics network will be operated in a • Number of accidents occurring across the How safe our city’s pools are. TCAL accident statistics.
safe, sustainable and efficient way. network. How efficiently the aquatics network is Pool Safe Assessments and reports.
• Pool Safe accreditation achieved. operating -is there a reduction in the rate Annual Reports and TCAL’s Statement of
• Net operating cost of an aquatics visit. payer funding contribution. Intent.
• Percentage of funding coming from Whether the aquatics network has Resource use survey - TCAL.
general rates. achieved a reduction in the amount of
Narrative report.
• Rate payer funding per head of resources in uses and waste it
population. generates.
• Resource use data - energy use, water
use and waste generation.
• Asset management plans are up-to-date.21
Appendix 1: Strategy Development Process
Date Process
June 2010 Strategy and Policy Committee Council approved the scope and approach of the Aquatics Strategy and identified key issues to be
addressed.
July - October 2010 Project Team Stocktake and research of existing aquatics data and needs analysis.
Community Engagement General Consultation through City Views and forms at pools inviting feedback. High users forum.
December 2010 - Project Team Analysis of public feedback to develop discussion document for public consultation.
February 2011
February 2011 Strategy and Policy Committee Adoption of Discussion Document for Public Consultation.
March 2011 Community Engagement Discussion Document sent to high user groups. Consultation through CityViews, Weekend Sun,
online document and survey.
April - June 2011 Project Team Developed proposed vision, principles, goals and actions based on community feedback and Council
direction to date.
May 2011 Elected Members Workshop on Otumoetai Discussion with Elected Members on potential future options for Otumoetai Pool.
Pool
June 20011 Strategy and Policy Committee Endorsement of vision, principles, goals and actions for inclusion in the draft 2012-2022 Aquatics
Strategy.
August 2011 Strategy and Policy Committee Decision to delay the adoption of Draft Strategy for community feedback.
February 2012 Strategy and Policy Committee Adoption of Draft Strategy for community feedback.
March - April 2012 Community Engagement - via the ten year Community feedback on draft Aquatics Strategy 2012-2022.
plan process
28 May - 1 June 2012 Council Submission Hearings and Deliberations.
26 June 2012 Council Adoption of Aquatics Strategy 2012-2022.22
Appendix 2: What the A few people noted that other facilities have a
lower user fee component.
community has told us • ‘The same split should apply over sporting
Funding our Aquatics Network grounds, libraries and the museum’
We asked people for their thoughts on the • ‘Other recreation resources get more general
current funding split between user fees and rates rates funding’
for aquatics. The majority of respondents thought
• ‘Other recreational sports have less cost to
the current split of 70 per cent user fees and 30
users’
per cent rates was reasonable. Others thought
the split should be different - some thought a Features important to have in pool
greater proportion of user fees and others facilities
wanted more rates contribution. There was a We wanted to know what features people thought
general feeling that the funding ratio must ensure were important to include in an aquatics facility.
that swimming was affordable to the community. Table three presents the features reported during
• ‘Pools must be an affordable facility for them the feedback process.
to be used. All people (especially children)
should know how to swim. Keeping it low
cost will encourage swimming to become
an everyday activity enhancing both greater
safety and fitness (as it was before the
computer age).’
• ‘Whatever it costs to keep aquatics services
affordable in Tauranga’
• ‘Pools should be for everyone and not have
high entrance fees so some cannot afford to
use them’23
Table Three: Responses on Important features of pool facilities
Pool features Amenities Accessibility Space Allocation Other features
25 metre pool Clean changing rooms and toilets Wheelchair access More public lanes Discount days
50 metre pool Reliable warm showers Ramps and sloped entry into pools Space for learn to swim Swim programs
Dive well Secure lockers Sufficient parking Space for play that does not impact Gym fitness facilities
on lane swimmers
Water play area Adequate dry seating for Reasonable entry fees Sufficient lane space for
supervising adults community clubs
Different sized pools for all Cafe Located on main routes for ease of
activities access
Hydro slide Shade in summer for open air
pools
Clean water Swim meet rooms
Supervised by qualified staff Outdoor area - bbq area
Pools deeper than 2m for
underwater hockey
Spa pools24
Network Use Configuration • ‘User groups are currently well catered for’ • ‘Not needed yet but need to consider as the
city continues to grow’
Users of the pools appear to be divided on • ‘Specific use would mean the specific groups
whether the city needs more facilities that are set may end up travelling long distances to get to • ‘Pools are very quiet when you place user
aside for specific user groups. This may reflect their facility’ numbers by opening hours’
the competing demands for aquatic resources.
• ‘Specialist sports are usually able to adapt a • ‘Existing pools need to be modernised first -
Some of the reasons put forward for having some
generic pool to their requirements with level of service raised’.
facilities in the network set aside for specific user
movable goals, barriers etc’.
groups included: While others believed there was a need for
Are additional Council Pools additional pools - particularly in some areas:
• ‘Tauranga is large enough now to have
required?
specialised facilities’ • ‘Papamoa and Mount not as well catered for
When asked if there was a need for additional as other areas - Papamoa needs a pool as
• ‘As long as the specific user groups are
Council pools in the network - respondents had a the population continues to grow’
willing to contribute more to fund specific use
variety of views. Some thought that further pools
facilities’
were not required for the following reasons: • ‘Welcome Bay does not have a pool - there
is a need for a local pool’
• ‘It could reduce the crowding - some user
• ‘Rates and debt are too high to think about
groups take up lane space from the public’ • ‘A pool is needed in Bethlehem partnership
building more’
with Bethlehem College is an option’
• ‘Payback to the community would come in
• ‘We need to utilise what we have better’
other ways by bringing people to the region • ‘Baywave is the only new pool since back in
for events’ • ‘Tauranga has a substantial amount of pools 1970’s - population has exploded since then’
but not the correct quality and dimensions’
Reasons for multi purpose facilities instead of • ‘Baywave met customer predictions very
specific use facilities included: • ‘Each facility should be fiscally responsible. quickly, indicating that the need for pools is
One facility should not subsidise another. If not keeping up with the population and
• ‘It may be more difficult to make specific use
a facility cannot support itself with 30 per leisure needs’
facilities profitable - and this may increase
cent rate funding it is not wanted by the
rates contribution’ • ‘Water play seems to be a lacking feature in
locals’
Tauranga’.
• ‘Only a small number of people may be likely
to use these facilities’25
• ‘Not enough room for all clubs/organisations • ‘There is a huge unmet demand from all of It is important to note the capacity is only an
to get quality time’ the aquatic sports’ issue at peak times - as many users recognise.
At peak times the demand for water sports
• ‘Not enough learn to swim organisations • ‘Baywave is the only pool in the Mount to
training, public access, programmes and casual
because of lack of space - resulting in a provide lane swimming and so naturally there
water space is extremely difficult to balance,
monopoly and rising learn to swim costs’ is a big demand’
whereas at non-peak times there are large
• ‘Willing to pay for higher level of service - e.g. Much of the feedback highlights the difficulty of amounts of water space not fully utilised.
Baywave made to 50 meters which, using allocating lane space between a wide range of
• ‘The lane space is probably about right,
dividers to make 2 X 25 metres would double activities and users.
especially during the day, it is just ‘’peak”
capacity’.
• ‘The development of our club is being user times makes things difficult’
Baywave stymied by access to pool space’
• ‘You have to manage your swim times
The fundamental issue that has emerged from • ‘Not enough lanes for the public due to around peak times i.e. lunch times’
our engagement with users on Baywave is squad training and other groups training. I
insufficient lane space during peak times. TCAL’s • ‘There is quite often enough lane space if
understand they need to train somewhere
booking schedule provides further evidence of you can choose to go between peak times’.
however.
the capacity issue during peak times in the lap Greerton Pool
pool. Various user groups - squads, sports teams • ‘I would like to use the learn to swim pool for
my kids but it is always being used by the At peak times lane space is reported as a key
and general public - are competing for lanes in
swim school. It is the only warm pool suitable issue by users at Greerton Pool.
the lane pool at peak times.
for small kids
• ‘I used to do aqua aerobics and found there
• ‘The lap pool is packed, and many swim
clubs are not able to take on more swimmers’ • ‘Never enough (lane space) in the mornings was not enough space for the people that
due to too many squads having apriority’ exercised and the swimmers in the lanes’
• ‘There is no availability for the general public
• ‘Understanding that the demand for squad • ‘Have been in numerous times to find it busy,
to undertake lane swimming after work hours
use is high and provides a good return for the so requested a refund on my entry’
during the week, it is always dominated by
pool but as a ratepayer I find it very
clubs etc’ • ‘At peak times all lanes are heaving. Public
frustrating that I am unable to use this facility lanes are almost unswimable due to large
• ‘Extra space is urgently required’ due to lack of lane space’. numbers - and we’re not doing the same26
training (so different strokes, speeds and rest • ‘You definitely need more parking. Mobility Other issues that emerged from the feedback
periods) you can’t squeeze as many in as car parks in particular and maybe a bus were:
you can in squads’. park’.
• Insufficient shade during summer
Again the problem is competing demands for the Memorial Pool
• Lack of seating and shelter
pool space at peak times. This is clear by many A large number of respondents value the open
of the comments we received: air aspect of Memorial Pool. • Water Temperature
• ‘The problem isn’t necessarily that there • ‘It is a beautiful place to swim because it is • Lack of community awareness of the pool.
aren’t enough lanes - its more with swim outdoors’ Otumoetai Pool
lessons and squads taking up almost the
entire complex after school’ • ‘I love how it is an open air pool. I always The key message from the feedback was the
come out of the pool feeling fresh no importance of Otumoetai Pool to the local
• ‘As it is such a popular school there are lots tsmelling of chemicals. It is a fantastic spot community. The reasons why the facility was
of group of people who all seem to come in and the open air swimming really feels like valued included:
about the same time. You either need more summer’
lanes, or maybe change some of the class • Its central location - close for local users. The
times’ • ‘I think it is nice to have an alternative to the additional time and cost of travelling
beach in summer when you want to swim elsewhere would be prohibitive
• ‘Not enough (lane space) at squad times, or outdoors, but not in salt water with waves’.
times of aquarobics. School sports are a • It is affordable
pain! I don’t want to swim there when the Some users suggested a covered option for year
• Memorial only operates during summer
school sports are on!’ round use.
months so Otumoetai becomes the pool for
Parking was also reported to be difficult to • ‘What about a retractable cover which could this area for winter lane swimmers
access for some users. offer the best of both, open in summer and
• A large number of children have lessons
covered in winter and mean the pools could
• ‘What parking? When ever I have been there there
stay open all year round’
it is for a swim meet and you have to park • It is essential for the learn to swim and squad
miles away as there are very few parks.’ • ‘It is lovely to use the outdoor pool but
training programme provided by Otumoetai
obviously with lane congestion everywhere it
Swimming Club
may be more sensible to cover it’.27
• A number of triathletes live in the area and the kids. My 7 year old often comes out with be completing the resurfacing of the parking
the pool is a definite resource in the area blue lips and this is during summer.’ area so that it can be utilised properly’
• Important part of Otumoetai and Matua. With • ‘The current facility is old and tired and • ‘The parking and access are awful’
the growth of Bethlehem, and Te Puna these needs updating. Our Children are trying to
• ‘The car park needs to be bigger and right
facilities are the nearest for an ever learn to swim in a pool that is far to cold for
outside the pool complex’
expanding sector of Tauranga City them making it hard for them to concentrate.’
• ‘It’s easy to find and the car parking is good’
• Significant number of top level swimmers that Users had different views about the parking and
come out of this area and they need to be general accessibility of the facility. Many thought • ‘It is convenient for parking’
catered for. parking was difficult and that more parking was
• ‘It is a central location with good parking’.
needed while others reported that parking was
We also received feedback on the:
good. In looking at the needs of the wider Tauranga
• condition of the changing rooms; West some users reported that they believe a
• ‘The only thing I don’t like about it is the
facility was needed in Bethlehem.
• the water temperature of the smaller pool access from the car park to the pool,
especially if you are alone at night, there are • ‘There is a large population in Tauranga
• parking and accessibility
personal security issues’ West other than Otumoetai, the nearest pool
is Memorial (which is quite a long way from
• The parking is dreadful at the current time.
Bethlehem and Matua)’.
• ‘The area has outgrown the facilities The pool shares its parking with other
available and the facilities themselves are users of Bellevue Park including the • ‘Bethlehem needs a community pool’.
extremely outdated’ Otumoetai Tennis Club and the Playcentre.
We asked users if they would be willing to pay -
Prior to the Council’s cordoning off of part of
• ‘The state of the changing shed is pretty either through user charges or rates - for a new
the parking facilities (apparently due to
appalling’ aquatics facility in Tauranga West. Many people
concerns of dust(!) by adjacent residents),
indicated they would be willing to pay. Some also
• ‘Otumoetai Pool has the worst changing the parking was just bearable. Now at peak
had clear preferences of how they would like to
rooms I have ever seen at any pool, ever!’ times users of Bellevue Park have to park a
contribute:
long distance down the road (a very busy
• ‘I am happy with the existing facility, only
road) - which is quite unsafe for users with • ‘User charges are only way to go in this
downside is the small pool is quite cold for
small children. This needs immediate remedy economic climate’You can also read
