Municipal Pools to turn 100

Despite being closed, the Municipal Pools in Victoria St turns 100 next month and dedicated supporters are planning a bash without a splash

Lobby group Sink Or Swim is marking the pools' 100 year birthday in front of the pools from 11am-12.30pm on Saturday, December 8.

Sink Or Swim spokesperson Megan Bourke says it would be great to celebrate in the pools, but they've been closed since June pending a city council report. "So instead we're celebrating as close as we can get to the old girl.

"Anyone with any connection to the pools over the last 100 years is invited to come celebrate and share their memories and stories," she says..

"On the day we'll be building a living tribute to the pools so many Hamiltonians have grown up with and love, and we're keen to meet the pool's oldest swimmer."

Colorful all girl ukele band The Apron Strings will be playing, and celebrity guest appearances include marathon rowing champion Rob Hamill plus Olympians.

Sink Or Swim is a group of individuals who love to swim at the Municipal Pools and are actively lobbying Hamilton City Council about the current condition of the pools which need major renovation and repair.

Sink Or Swim has been advised that the final report on the pool complex will be presented at the December 11 council meeting.

The pools, originally called the 'Coronation Baths', were built for the community in 1912 and includes the oldest in-ground pool in New Zealand.

Megan urges interested people to bring yourself, your memories and your stories. "Hear tales from swimming celebrities and share your own. Help us build a living tribute to the pools we all love.

"Help us acknowledge the work that so many people have done for the Muni's. The community and pool have been working together for 100 years, let's make it longer."