Whanganui East pool ready for summer

The Whanganui East pool is being filled for a December 12 opening. Photo/Bevan Conley.

Whanganui East pool will open its doors for the summer on December 12, with pool filling starting this week.

Lifeguard recruitment has begun and a group of new and returning lifeguards will patrol both the Splash Centre and Whanganui East pools.

Dave Campbell, Splash Centre manager, said he's looking forward to the opening, with a couple of changes pool patrons will notice. That includes the demolition of the toddlers' pool because of its age and condition.

"The Whanganui District Council has turned it into an area where families can have lunch with their little ones, behind a fence to keep them safe," Mr Campbell said.
During the off-season some cracks at the complex were repaired and it seems the strong November 14 earthquake had little impact.

He said the suburban pool was a special place.

"It's the emotional attachment that people have with the pool. The fact that their father, grandfather and great-grandfather swam there is a big drawcard. I have fond memories of biking over from Springvale when I was a kid to have a turn on the hydroslide."

He said patrons can use Splash Centre concession and membership cards at Whanganui East.

"We have to thank the Wanganui East pool trust for running the facility in the last few years and look forward to working with them this summer."

Facilities include a 33m pool, learners' pool, hydroslide, diving board, barbeque, picnic/lawn areas and significant shade structures.

During school term the pol will be open daily from 3-6pm. During school holidays it will open from 11am-6pm Monday to Thursday, and from 11am-5pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Admission charges are: Pre-schoolers and spectators $1, children $2.50, adults $3.50, students and Gold Card holders $3. The hydroslide is $2 with a family pass (two adults and two children) set at $10.

For more information contact the pool office on 343 6650.