Swimming pool

Swimming Pool in Darfield is a popular destination for families and individuals looking to beat the summer heat and enjoy some outdoor recreation. Located on Ross Street in Darfield, this fully lifeguarded pool operates from Show Weekend in mid-November to mid-March, depending on weather conditions.

The pool offers a range of facilities for visitors of all ages. The outdoor pool measures 25 metres in length and 9 metres in width, with a depth ranging from 1. 0 to 1. 85 metres.

In addition to the main pool, there are also two indoor pools available. These include a learner's pool and a toddler splash deck with water features, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for younger swimmers.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the pool features a 3-metre hydro slide, which is soon to be open once minor pump issues are resolved. Additionally, there is a water bomb platform and a water play area, offering fun options for visitors of all ages. All pools at Swimming Pool in Darfield are heated, ensuring a comfortable swimming experience regardless of the weather.

Safety is a top priority at the pool. Children under 5 years of age must be within arm's reach of a caregiver who is 16 years or older. Furthermore, children under 8 years old must be actively supervised by a caregiver, ensuring a safe environment for all swimmers.

The pool operates on a set schedule throughout the year. During the school term, the pool is open from 7 am to 7 pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and from 3:30 pm to 7 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. During school holidays and public holidays, the pool is open to the public every day from 1 pm to 7 pm. There are lane swimming sessions available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 7 am to 8 am.

Admission prices at Swimming Pool in Darfield are reasonable, making it an affordable option for individuals and families. A season pass costs $160, with child and adult single entry fees set at $3 and $3. 50 respectively. Senior citizens can enter the pool for $3, while the Aqua programme is priced at $6.

Concession cards, offering 10 swims, are available for $27 for children, $31. 50 for adults, $27 for seniors, and $54 for Aqua users.

Swimming lessons are offered at the pool during specific periods. In Term 4 2023, lessons run from 20 November to 18 December, taking place on Mondays and Saturdays. Block 1 lessons occur from 3 to 13 January, while Block 2 lessons are held from 15 to 26 January, both occurring every morning. Term 1 2024 lessons run from 29 January to 16 March on Mondays and Saturdays.

Prices for swimming lessons vary, with under 3-year-olds charged $10. 50 per lesson and over 3-year-olds charged $13 per lesson. It is necessary to book for an entire block or term to participate in swimming lessons.

For those looking to engage in low-impact exercise, Aqua Aerobics classes are available at the pool. These classes take place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays at 12:15 pm, and on Tuesdays at 6 pm. Aqua Aerobics classes run from 20 November to 22 December and 8 January to 11 March, allowing participants to stay fit and active in a fun and supportive environment.

Swimming Pool in Darfield is not the only pool managed by the council. Sheffield Memorial Pool, located on SH73 West Coast Road in Sheffield, and Southbridge Pool on High Street in Southbridge are two other community pools that provide a variety of swimming options for residents and visitors alike. Sheffield Memorial Pool features two outdoor pools, including a lane pool measuring 21 metres by 9 metres with a depth ranging from 1. 0 to 2.

3 metres. There is also a paddling pool measuring 6 metres by 2 metres, as well as a diving board and new change facilities on-site. The pool operates from Monday to Friday from 3:30 pm to 7 pm during the school term and from 2 pm to 6 pm during school holidays, weekends, and public holidays. Admission prices vary and family season passes are available upon inquiry.

Similarly, Southbridge Pool offers a heated, fully lifeguarded swimming experience. The lane pool measures 25 metres by 13 metres with a depth ranging from 0. 9 to 1. 8 metres, while the paddling pool measures 5 metres by 6.

7 metres. The pool features a hydroslide for visitors aged 8 and older, along with a new change facility. During the school term, the pool is open from Monday to Friday from 3:30 pm to 7 pm, and during school holidays, weekends, and public holidays, it is open from 1 pm to 7 pm. It is important to note that the pool is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays during February and March for Swim Club use.

Admission prices are reasonable, with a season pass available for $150.

Finally, Leeston Learners Pool can be found on Chervier Street in Leeston. This pool is not lifeguarded and operates from December to the end of March for those with season access keys.

Overall, Swimming Pool in Darfield and its sister pools in Sheffield and Southbridge provide a range of swimming and recreational opportunities for the community. Whether it's cooling off in the summer heat, taking swimming lessons, or participating in Aqua Aerobics, these pools offer something for everyone to enjoy.