Warm water a hit for Owhata School

Just as Hinemoa swam across the lake from Owhata, her descendants there are also learning to swim.

However the students at Owhata Primary School won't be shivering in Lake Rotorua, thanks to a $30,000 loan which has allowed the school to install solar heating in its 25m pool.

Principal Bob Stiles said the board of trustees had worked long and hard to develop the pool facility.

"It was built by the community back in the '80s or late '70s so it's over 40 years old," Stiles said.

"Six years ago the board covered it. In the past it's been a bit cold so we've had solar heating installed."

Stiles said the board had fundraised for the solar heating but had also received an interest-free loan for moving away from the use of electricity.

The Ministry of Education had also helped, he said.

Stiles said the pool had previously been derelict and unused but it was now a valuable resource.

"The kids swim three times a week during school and we also get the support of Rotorua Swim Club who send along teachers voluntarily," he said.

"There are so many kids around and with so many lakes [swimming is important]."

Stiles said having solar heating also extended the length of the school's swimming season allowing more consistent lessons.