Swimming

Christchurch has public swimming pools for you and your family to enjoy. Whether you are learning to swim, looking for swimming lessons for your children or need to cool off in the summer months you can find a swimming pool in Christchurch to suit your needs.

From family friendly pools to adult only relaxation, you can find it all at Christchurch. 

Swimming Listings

Aquagym

AQUAGYM SWIM CENTRE

Aquagym

Welcome to AquaGym - Christchurch Swim School

We believe that every child should be given the opportunity to gain the lifetime benefits of being able to swim.

Our Swim School is member of the prestigious ANZUS World Swim School Group, The United States Swim Schools Association, The Australian Swim Schools Association and The New Zealand Swim Teachers and Coaches Association. Our Leaders participate in these yearly conferences to ensure we are teaching with leading edge practices world wide. 

03-381 0299
info@aquagym.co.nz
Entry

LINWOOD POOL

Entry

Linwood Pool Christchurch

A new indoor swimming pool is planned for the Linwood-Woolston community and is expected to open in late 2021.

The high profile location on the corner of Linwood Avenue and Smith Street has been chosen as the site for the planned Aquatic Centre. The facility will be built at 141 Smith Street, which is on a section next to Linwood Park that faces onto Linwood Avenue.

Scarborough

SCARBOROUGH BEACH

Scarborough

Scarborough Beach Christchurch

Scarborough also has a 1.25 km promenade ending at Cave Rock good facilities a beach cafe and a great kid’s paddling pool.

This is one of the parks in Christchurch that family's love to use behind the beach along with the paddling pool there is a playground and picnic area with public BBQ's fantastic place to take the family. Was always a favorite with my children and we had many a long day enjoying this beach.

TUMBLEDOWN BAY

Tumbledown Bay

If you want a day at the beach without the crowds, head to Tumbledown Bay on the southern shores of Banks Peninsula.

The bay got its name from an incident involving too much alcohol and bottles being smashed after a tumble down a steep slope so it has long been a place for summer fun.

Sheltered by cliffs and a gentle surf, the bay is the perfect place for a paddle or a swim on a hot day. If you are lucky, you might spot hector dolphins swimming in the bay.

Botanic Gardens Playground

BOTANIC GARDENS CHILDRENS PLAYGROUND

Botanic Gardens Playground

Botanic Gardens Children's playground

The children's playground is near the Armagh Street car park entrance.

A popular playground, it's been entertaining generations of Christchurch children for many years.

Play equipment includes swings, slides, multi-play structures and climbing towers.

There is also a liberty swing available for children with disabilities. To use the swing, please collect the key from the Visitor Centre.

03-941 7590
McMillan's Aquatic Centre

McMILLANS AQUATIC CENTRE

McMillan's Aquatic Centre

Welcome to McMillan's Aquatic Centre

Christchurch based swim school for advanced beginners, mini squad swimmers and adult lesson and lane hire.

A privately owned and operated swim school. Our pool is a five-lane, 20m, indoor heated facility.
We offer dedicated swimming tuition for adults, children, and mini-squad swimmers.
The pool is also available for adult lane hire for those wishing to swim lengths.

03-332 4617
bees.swim@xtra.co.nz
Sumner Beach

SUMNER BEACH

Sumner Beach

Sumner Beach

Close to the township of Sumner this Christchurch beach that continues onto Scarborough beach by a 1.25 km promenade starting at Cave Rock. Sumner beach also has the nearby outlet of the Avon Heathcote Estuary. Note although it is possible to reach the South Shore side of the outlet from Sumner beach hidden strong rips and undertows at the mouth can be a danger to swimmers.

Waikuku Beach

WAIKUKU BEACH

Waikuku Beach

Waikuku Beach

CORSAIR BAY

CORSAIR BAY

CORSAIR BAY

Corsair Bay

Corsair Bay Christchurch is a beautiful bay only ten minutes drive from Lyttelton, around the port hills and is a great place for the family swimming or a relaxing picnic. A lot of us in Christchurch would have experienced a day or two as kids at the bay.  In my own case I went back with mates later on as it is a really good place to swim and relax.
Swim out to the secured raft or sunbathe in the grass as the kids play in the shallow water of the inlet Canoe or kayak.

METRO SPORTS FACILITY

METRO SPORTS FACILITY

METRO SPORTS FACILITY

Metro Sports Facility - Taiwhanga Rehia Christchurch

Metro Sports Facility, Taiwhanga Rehia, for Christchurch will be the largest aquatic centre and indoor recreation and leisure venue of its kind in New Zealand, accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

QE11

TAIORA QE11

QE11

Book your visit

Taiora QEII Pool and Sport Centre Christchurch

If you want to swim, relax with the kids or set a personal best in the gym, Taiora: QEII Recreation and Sport Centre has you covered.
All are welcome whether you’re a member or just want to come on a casual basis.

Check out website for Fitness Centre , Indoor Pool and Leisure Pool hours and timetables.

03-941 6888
Waimakariri River

WAIMAKARIRI RIVER

Waimakariri River

Waimakariri River

Waimakariri River Christchurch can vary widely in its flow and current, so swim here with caution and also be mindful of boating traffic.
Popular swimming holes can be found by the old Waimakariri bridge outside of Kaiapoi or in the Gorge.
If you have never swam there only swim where others are and be aware there is a strong current and no life guards.

Swimming Christchurch

GRAHAM CONDON RECREATION & SPORTS CENTRE

Swimming Christchurch

Book your visit

Graham Condon Recreation & Sport Centre Christchurch

(03) 941 6888
New Brighton

NEW BRIGHTON BEACH

New Brighton

Welcome to New Brighton Beach

Winters Morning

TAYLORS MISTAKE

Winters Morning

Taylors Mistake a Christchurch beach has always been a very popular beach in Christchurch.

Surf Lifeguards patrol this beach over the weekends “Volunteers over summer", and paid Guards patrol during the week over the school summer break. There are rip currents to be aware of. It is generally safe to swim in surf under 1m.

It is at the starting point of the Godley Heads track well worth taking on a good day.

Waltham Pool

WALTHAM SWIMMING POOL

Waltham Pool

Waltham Swimming Pool Christchurch

Waltham Summer Pool is located at 30 Waltham Road, Sydenham and is open from 17 November 2018 to 31 March 2019. You can take the number 17 bus to get here.

Good family Aquatic Centre simple outdoor style very popular with locals can sit on grass and picnic also has hydroslide to keep the kids happy, a great Christchurch pool.

Casual pool fees apply.

03-941 8999

HOT WATER POOLS

He Puna Taimoana the Christchurch Hot Water Pools is open.
People wanting to have a soak in the hot pools will need to make a booking and pay online

Do you live in Christchurch? Click here to Apply for your resident card today  . and receive a discount.

Lyttelton Pool

NORMAN KIRK MEMORIAL POOL

Lyttelton Pool

Norman Kirk Memorial Christchurch

Local families are now able to apply for a key that allows them to swim at the pool for longer hours than the general public.
The pool season will also last over a month longer for key holders.

Halswell Pool

TE HAPUA AQUATIC CENTRE

Halswell Pool

Te Hapua Halswell Christchurch Aquatic Centre

A popular Christchurch swimming pool for the enthusiasts and local families.

Te Hāpua: Halswell Centre incorporates the existing Halswell Aquatic Centre alongside a 3000 square metre building housing the new library.

Call us on 03-941 8999 

 

03-941 8999
Swim Christchurch

WHARENUI SPORTS CENTRE

Swim Christchurch

Wharenui Swim Club Christchurch

The Wharenui Swim Club Aquatic Centre is one of the premier swim clubs in New Zealand. Founded in 1911 it is also one of the oldest and largest clubs, with a proud history of swimming successes and innovations. Today Wharenui is one of the largest clubs in Christchurch and the South Island and offers quality coaching from our Learn to Swim programme right through to our top squad lead by 1994 Commonwealth Games gold medalist Martin Harris.

The Christchurch club has a strong team culture led by our team captains Evelyn and Chris.

03 348 6488
reception@wharenui.co.nz
Jellie Park

JELLIE PARK

Jellie Park

Book your visit

Christchurch based Jellie Park Recreation & Sport Centre

At Jellie Park Aquatic Centre we offer loads of fun in our pools and swimming lessons for all ages.

Jellie Park offers everything from family fun in the water to reaching your fitness goals in our gym and group classes!

03-941 6888
Pioneer Recreation & Sport Centre

PIONEER RECREATION & SPORTS CENTRE

Pioneer Recreation & Sport Centre

Book your visit

Pioneer Recreation & Sport Centre

Christchurch Pioneer Recreation & Sport Centre whether you want to swim, relax with the kids or set a personal best in the gym, the Pioneer Recreation and Sport Centre has it all.

03-941 6888
TEMPLETON SUMMER POOL

TEMPLETON SUMMER POOL

TEMPLETON SUMMER POOL

Templeton Summer Pool Christchurch

A great spot to keep cool and splash around with friends and family over summer.

The Templeton Summer Pool is located at 62 Kirk Road, Templeton (external link) and is open from 1 December 2018 to 24 February 2019. 

You can take the yellow line bus (external link) to get here or use the onsite parking or bike stands at the Templeton Community Centre.

WOODHAM PARK

WOODHAM PARK

WOODHAM PARK

Woodham Park Christchurch

Woodham Park has a large collection of expansive mature trees include specimens of daimyo oak, trembling poplar, Chinese wingnut and slippery elm. The borders feature excellent examples of laurel and yew hedges, a variety of herbaceous plants interspersed with hydrangeas and camellias, and an outstanding collection of rhododendrons.

The Park also boasts the only aviary operated by the City Council, housing specimens of Java sparrow, ring-necked dove, native and exotic parakeet, quail and various finches.

Roto Kohatu Reserve

LAKE ROTO KOHATU

Roto Kohatu Reserve

Lake Roto Kohatu Christchurch

A hidden gem the Harewood reserve off Johns road is the largest body of fresh water suitable for swimming in Christchurch and is going to have an upgrade to its parking and facilities.

It is situated in an industrial area.  The small lake area itself is surrounded by grassy slopes with some trees for shade along with walking tracks that surround the lake itself.

The facility was developed as an area for powered and non powered crafts and is popular among Jet Skiers.

PORT LEVY

Port Levy

About an hour’s drive from Christchurch lies historic Port Levy bay. The long, sheltered bay is home to less than 100 people, but in the mid-19th century it was the largest Māori settlement in Canterbury with a population of about 400 people.

There is still a marae at Port Levy, as well as a stone memorial marking the spot where the first Māori Anglican church was built.

TIKAO BAY

Tikao Bay

Instead of following all the holiday-makers who turn left at Barry’s Bay and head to Akaroa, turn right and head to lovely Tikao Bay.

This peaceful little bay is a just a 10 minute drive from Barry’s Bay but has a laid-back holiday vibe that will have you feeling relaxed in no time.

Nestled in the bush around Tikao Bay are a smattering of baches and holiday homes, but there are no shops or cafes so if you’re planning to spend the day chilling on the beach, pack a picnic.

Swimming Listings

Aquagym

AQUAGYM SWIM CENTRE

Aquagym

Welcome to AquaGym - Christchurch Swim School

We believe that every child should be given the opportunity to gain the lifetime benefits of being able to swim.

Our Swim School is member of the prestigious ANZUS World Swim School Group, The United States Swim Schools Association, The Australian Swim Schools Association and The New Zealand Swim Teachers and Coaches Association. Our Leaders participate in these yearly conferences to ensure we are teaching with leading edge practices world wide. 

03-381 0299
info@aquagym.co.nz
Botanic Gardens Playground

BOTANIC GARDENS CHILDRENS PLAYGROUND

Botanic Gardens Playground

Botanic Gardens Children's playground

The children's playground is near the Armagh Street car park entrance.

A popular playground, it's been entertaining generations of Christchurch children for many years.

Play equipment includes swings, slides, multi-play structures and climbing towers.

There is also a liberty swing available for children with disabilities. To use the swing, please collect the key from the Visitor Centre.

03-941 7590
CORSAIR BAY

CORSAIR BAY

CORSAIR BAY

Corsair Bay

Corsair Bay Christchurch is a beautiful bay only ten minutes drive from Lyttelton, around the port hills and is a great place for the family swimming or a relaxing picnic. A lot of us in Christchurch would have experienced a day or two as kids at the bay.  In my own case I went back with mates later on as it is a really good place to swim and relax.
Swim out to the secured raft or sunbathe in the grass as the kids play in the shallow water of the inlet Canoe or kayak.

Swimming Christchurch

GRAHAM CONDON RECREATION & SPORTS CENTRE

Swimming Christchurch

Book your visit

Graham Condon Recreation & Sport Centre Christchurch

(03) 941 6888

HOT WATER POOLS

He Puna Taimoana the Christchurch Hot Water Pools is open.
People wanting to have a soak in the hot pools will need to make a booking and pay online

Do you live in Christchurch? Click here to Apply for your resident card today  . and receive a discount.

Jellie Park

JELLIE PARK

Jellie Park

Book your visit

Christchurch based Jellie Park Recreation & Sport Centre

At Jellie Park Aquatic Centre we offer loads of fun in our pools and swimming lessons for all ages.

Jellie Park offers everything from family fun in the water to reaching your fitness goals in our gym and group classes!

03-941 6888
Roto Kohatu Reserve

LAKE ROTO KOHATU

Roto Kohatu Reserve

Lake Roto Kohatu Christchurch

A hidden gem the Harewood reserve off Johns road is the largest body of fresh water suitable for swimming in Christchurch and is going to have an upgrade to its parking and facilities.

It is situated in an industrial area.  The small lake area itself is surrounded by grassy slopes with some trees for shade along with walking tracks that surround the lake itself.

The facility was developed as an area for powered and non powered crafts and is popular among Jet Skiers.

Entry

LINWOOD POOL

Entry

Linwood Pool Christchurch

A new indoor swimming pool is planned for the Linwood-Woolston community and is expected to open in late 2021.

The high profile location on the corner of Linwood Avenue and Smith Street has been chosen as the site for the planned Aquatic Centre. The facility will be built at 141 Smith Street, which is on a section next to Linwood Park that faces onto Linwood Avenue.

McMillan's Aquatic Centre

McMILLANS AQUATIC CENTRE

McMillan's Aquatic Centre

Welcome to McMillan's Aquatic Centre

Christchurch based swim school for advanced beginners, mini squad swimmers and adult lesson and lane hire.

A privately owned and operated swim school. Our pool is a five-lane, 20m, indoor heated facility.
We offer dedicated swimming tuition for adults, children, and mini-squad swimmers.
The pool is also available for adult lane hire for those wishing to swim lengths.

03-332 4617
bees.swim@xtra.co.nz
METRO SPORTS FACILITY

METRO SPORTS FACILITY

METRO SPORTS FACILITY

Metro Sports Facility - Taiwhanga Rehia Christchurch

Metro Sports Facility, Taiwhanga Rehia, for Christchurch will be the largest aquatic centre and indoor recreation and leisure venue of its kind in New Zealand, accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

New Brighton

NEW BRIGHTON BEACH

New Brighton

Welcome to New Brighton Beach

Lyttelton Pool

NORMAN KIRK MEMORIAL POOL

Lyttelton Pool

Norman Kirk Memorial Christchurch

Local families are now able to apply for a key that allows them to swim at the pool for longer hours than the general public.
The pool season will also last over a month longer for key holders.

Pioneer Recreation & Sport Centre

PIONEER RECREATION & SPORTS CENTRE

Pioneer Recreation & Sport Centre

Book your visit

Pioneer Recreation & Sport Centre

Christchurch Pioneer Recreation & Sport Centre whether you want to swim, relax with the kids or set a personal best in the gym, the Pioneer Recreation and Sport Centre has it all.

03-941 6888

PORT LEVY

Port Levy

About an hour’s drive from Christchurch lies historic Port Levy bay. The long, sheltered bay is home to less than 100 people, but in the mid-19th century it was the largest Māori settlement in Canterbury with a population of about 400 people.

There is still a marae at Port Levy, as well as a stone memorial marking the spot where the first Māori Anglican church was built.

Scarborough

SCARBOROUGH BEACH

Scarborough

Scarborough Beach Christchurch

Scarborough also has a 1.25 km promenade ending at Cave Rock good facilities a beach cafe and a great kid’s paddling pool.

This is one of the parks in Christchurch that family's love to use behind the beach along with the paddling pool there is a playground and picnic area with public BBQ's fantastic place to take the family. Was always a favorite with my children and we had many a long day enjoying this beach.

Sumner Beach

SUMNER BEACH

Sumner Beach

Sumner Beach

Close to the township of Sumner this Christchurch beach that continues onto Scarborough beach by a 1.25 km promenade starting at Cave Rock. Sumner beach also has the nearby outlet of the Avon Heathcote Estuary. Note although it is possible to reach the South Shore side of the outlet from Sumner beach hidden strong rips and undertows at the mouth can be a danger to swimmers.

QE11

TAIORA QE11

QE11

Book your visit

Taiora QEII Pool and Sport Centre Christchurch

If you want to swim, relax with the kids or set a personal best in the gym, Taiora: QEII Recreation and Sport Centre has you covered.
All are welcome whether you’re a member or just want to come on a casual basis.

Check out website for Fitness Centre , Indoor Pool and Leisure Pool hours and timetables.

03-941 6888
Winters Morning

TAYLORS MISTAKE

Winters Morning

Taylors Mistake a Christchurch beach has always been a very popular beach in Christchurch.

Surf Lifeguards patrol this beach over the weekends “Volunteers over summer", and paid Guards patrol during the week over the school summer break. There are rip currents to be aware of. It is generally safe to swim in surf under 1m.

It is at the starting point of the Godley Heads track well worth taking on a good day.

Halswell Pool

TE HAPUA AQUATIC CENTRE

Halswell Pool

Te Hapua Halswell Christchurch Aquatic Centre

A popular Christchurch swimming pool for the enthusiasts and local families.

Te Hāpua: Halswell Centre incorporates the existing Halswell Aquatic Centre alongside a 3000 square metre building housing the new library.

Call us on 03-941 8999 

 

03-941 8999
TEMPLETON SUMMER POOL

TEMPLETON SUMMER POOL

TEMPLETON SUMMER POOL

Templeton Summer Pool Christchurch

A great spot to keep cool and splash around with friends and family over summer.

The Templeton Summer Pool is located at 62 Kirk Road, Templeton (external link) and is open from 1 December 2018 to 24 February 2019. 

You can take the yellow line bus (external link) to get here or use the onsite parking or bike stands at the Templeton Community Centre.

TIKAO BAY

Tikao Bay

Instead of following all the holiday-makers who turn left at Barry’s Bay and head to Akaroa, turn right and head to lovely Tikao Bay.

This peaceful little bay is a just a 10 minute drive from Barry’s Bay but has a laid-back holiday vibe that will have you feeling relaxed in no time.

Nestled in the bush around Tikao Bay are a smattering of baches and holiday homes, but there are no shops or cafes so if you’re planning to spend the day chilling on the beach, pack a picnic.

TUMBLEDOWN BAY

Tumbledown Bay

If you want a day at the beach without the crowds, head to Tumbledown Bay on the southern shores of Banks Peninsula.

The bay got its name from an incident involving too much alcohol and bottles being smashed after a tumble down a steep slope so it has long been a place for summer fun.

Sheltered by cliffs and a gentle surf, the bay is the perfect place for a paddle or a swim on a hot day. If you are lucky, you might spot hector dolphins swimming in the bay.

Waimakariri River

WAIMAKARIRI RIVER

Waimakariri River

Waimakariri River

Waimakariri River Christchurch can vary widely in its flow and current, so swim here with caution and also be mindful of boating traffic.
Popular swimming holes can be found by the old Waimakariri bridge outside of Kaiapoi or in the Gorge.
If you have never swam there only swim where others are and be aware there is a strong current and no life guards.

Waltham Pool

WALTHAM SWIMMING POOL

Waltham Pool

Waltham Swimming Pool Christchurch

Waltham Summer Pool is located at 30 Waltham Road, Sydenham and is open from 17 November 2018 to 31 March 2019. You can take the number 17 bus to get here.

Good family Aquatic Centre simple outdoor style very popular with locals can sit on grass and picnic also has hydroslide to keep the kids happy, a great Christchurch pool.

Casual pool fees apply.

03-941 8999
Swim Christchurch

WHARENUI SPORTS CENTRE

Swim Christchurch

Wharenui Swim Club Christchurch

The Wharenui Swim Club Aquatic Centre is one of the premier swim clubs in New Zealand. Founded in 1911 it is also one of the oldest and largest clubs, with a proud history of swimming successes and innovations. Today Wharenui is one of the largest clubs in Christchurch and the South Island and offers quality coaching from our Learn to Swim programme right through to our top squad lead by 1994 Commonwealth Games gold medalist Martin Harris.

The Christchurch club has a strong team culture led by our team captains Evelyn and Chris.

03 348 6488
reception@wharenui.co.nz
WOODHAM PARK

WOODHAM PARK

WOODHAM PARK

Woodham Park Christchurch

Woodham Park has a large collection of expansive mature trees include specimens of daimyo oak, trembling poplar, Chinese wingnut and slippery elm. The borders feature excellent examples of laurel and yew hedges, a variety of herbaceous plants interspersed with hydrangeas and camellias, and an outstanding collection of rhododendrons.

The Park also boasts the only aviary operated by the City Council, housing specimens of Java sparrow, ring-necked dove, native and exotic parakeet, quail and various finches.

Swimming Map

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