Awakeri Hot Pools reopening after Cyclone Vaianu damage to site

Awakeri Hot Pools is set to reopen today after damage caused by Cyclone Vaianu this month.

Strong winds during the April 12 cyclone brought down the shade sail over the children’s pool, leaving the area unsafe and forcing a temporary closure.

The children’s pool will remain closed, with only the adult pool reopening to the public.

Temporary fencing is being installed around the children’s pool this week to secure the damaged area and allow the site to operate safely.

Damage to the shade sail over the children’s pool at Awakeri Hot Springs means only the adult pool will reopen this weekend. Photo / Tamara Herdman

The cyclone also caused damage across the wider campground. Several trees were brought down, including one that fell on to a row of cabins.

The pools have been a long-standing fixture in the area, known to many locals as a place for family outings, school trips and celebrations.

The business owner, Kevin Haig, has been on-site this week overseeing repairs.

The 84-year-old is caring for his wife following a fall and says they have been considering stepping back from the business.

Awakeri Hot Pools is in liquidation but continues to operate while it is “traded out”, allowing it to keep running in the short term while its future is worked through.

A large tree brought down during recent severe weather lies across cabins at Awakeri Hot Pools. Photo / Tamara Herdman

The immediate focus remains on reopening safely and resuming operations, albeit in a limited capacity.

The land on which Awakeri Hot Pools sits was returned to the Pukaahu Trust after the Ngāti Awa Treaty settlement, with legal transfer completed in the years after the 2005 Settlement Act.

The land remains subject to the existing registered lease to Awakeri Hot Springs (2002) Ltd.