Choosing your Pool & Spa - New Zealand

The official publication of the Swimming Pool & Spa Assosciation

A MESSAGE FROM THE SPASA CEO

Making the decision to purchase a new pool or spa requires consideration of many important factors, ranging from minor to major Recognising this, the Swimming Pool & Spa Association (SPASA) produces an annual magazine, Choosing Your Pool and Spa, to aid the countless individuals across Australia and New Zealand who are eager to take the plunge This publication showcases the top contenders from NZ, including the winners and finalists of the SPASA Awards of Excellence In 2022, these awards recognise the premier members of our industry at both the state and national levels Our association is committed to providing prospective pool owners with the most up-to-date information and connections to industry professionals to assist them through the process of selecting the ideal pool or spa

If you're in need of inspiration, the awards presented in this magazine celebrate exceptional achievements in creativity, innovation, design, and service Each year, the bar is raised even higher, providing encouragement for customers to expect more from the industry The SPASA awards acknowledge the talent, diligence, and dedication of the nominees, who strive to deliver the best outcomes for their customers To access the highest levels of expertise and receive the right advice, consider consulting a SPASA member.

I trust that you will enjoy this magazine issue and will feel confident and well-informed when you choose to invest in a swimming pool or spa. These lifestyle enhancements can provide substantial benefits, and I wish you the best of luck in your aquatic endeavours.

Warm regards and happy swimming,

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN BUILDING A POOL

Lindsay McGrath CEO, SPASA

Photocredit:AcaciaPools

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN BUILDING A POOL

Building or installing a new swimming pool is a multi-staged undertaking. From the moment you decide to invest in the health and happiness a backyard swimming pool delivers, it helps to understand the various project phases and the time each will take to complete.

Installing or building a pool is a big undertaking, with lots of variables to consider along the way autumn is a great time to kick off, ensuring everything is ready when the warm weather returns the process is not quite as simple as digging a hole in the backyard and filling it with water, so it’s helpful to understand the process and how long it will take

SOME CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE YOU BEGIN

A bit of groundwork is required before you schedule an initial consultation with a builder do you have house plans and do they show the elevation of your block? how much of the yard do you want to utilise? do you have sewer or stormwater drains running under your property? What is the plan for the rest of the landscaping? do you have enough access for a machine minimum of 2 metres is required and do you need neighbours’ consent?

The material construction of your pool will largely determine the entire project timeline You can expect a concrete swimming pool project to take around four months to complete. Fibreglass pool builds are typically slightly shorter, at about three months, and prefabricated plunge pools can be installed ready for swimming within days of council approval being provided composite or vinyllined pools are usually installed in just under three months and above-ground pools will take as little as nine weeks

STAGE ONE INITIAL CONSULTATION

Once you’ve decided to take the plunge, your first interaction with the pool and spa industry is seeking an initial consultation this will probably take a couple of weeks and may involve a pool supplier, builder or contractor, designer, architect and/or engineer You can expect the following things to take place:

• an initial visit to your home, where the contractor or builder will conduct a site inspection and discuss your requirements in detail

• design consultation, which may include engaging an architect, engineer or other design professional this will depend on the nature of your site including access considerations or any engineering complexities that will influence the overall design and construction • provision of a written quotation, along with particulars on contract terms, applicable warranties etc.

• contract finalisation and signing the contract will incorporate the physical design details of your pool: shape, size, water depth, the interior finish, the type of filtration and access it will also outline the progress payments schedule you will be expected to pay instalments throughout the construction and installation process the contract should detail when payments will become due, what those payments specifically cover and what will happen in the event of unforeseen circumstances or delays. it should additionally outline warranty terms on both the pool and associated equipment like filtration systems the initial consultation period should also include explanation of The types of insurances required including building indemnity and/ or contract works cover.

STAGE TWO COUNCIL APPROVALS

Approval is usually the lengthiest stage of a pool build or installation, taking anywhere from just a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the approval process in your state or territory.

Things may move a little slower than you would like at this stage, but getting an approval is required to ensure your pool is built to plan You should check with your local council if you are unsure about what is involved in getting an approval. this is to ensure that your pool meets all of the applicable legal requirements including local structural and safety obligations, along with any state man- dated conditions You may need to check with your water provider regarding any water restrictions that may be in place before filling your pool You will also need permission from the local water authority prior to filling your pool or spa with mains water there are a number of variables depending on your location especially at times when water restrictions are in place but the issued permit will clearly outline conditions that must be met in order for you to comply with local requirements

Depending on your location, there may be a requirement for staged inspections by council or a private certifier at certain points in the installation or construction process, so ask your contractor to explain this process in more detail

Not long now till you can take that first anticipated swim in crystal clear water handover should include provision of a checklist and a comprehensive run-down on how to maintain and protect your new investment. elements of a handover include:

• provision of a certificate of completion or similar

• explanation of statutory and manufacturer warranties

• provision of equipment and accessories information, including instruction or operations manuals

• explanation of pool safety instructions

• start-up and running procedure instruction

• maintenance schedule steps and recommendations

Installation or construction is the largest variable in a new pool project a prefabricated plunge or above-ground pool can take as little as two or three days, but you’ll be looking at close to eight weeks for a concrete construction. Fibreglass and composite/vinyl-lined pools will generally take around three to four weeks to finish processes include:

• excavation and earthworks

• construction (in the case of concrete or composite/vinyl-lined pools) or shell installation (in the case of fibreglass pools)

• tiling

• laying the coping

• safety barrier installation

• filling the pool and balancing the water

• referral to a qualified SpaSa service technician for ongoing maintenance and advice

Once handover is complete, the pool is officially yours and you can start swimming!

It’s important to note that we’ve provided this information as a general guide on average installation and construction time frames as every pool is different, your unique project may take more or less time the average times provided do not take into account any extraordinary circumstances or events, like access difficulties or mate- rial choices that may delay construction. these times also exclude additional afterthe-fact processes like paving or landscaping Your contractor can provide a more detailed and accurate plan based on your specific circumstances

STAGE THREE — INSTALLATION OR CONSTRUCTION

STAGE FOUR — HANDOVER

THE BRAND THAT STARTED IT ALL.

They say that imitation is the sincerest form of fl attery, and over the years plenty have taken inspiration from Jacuzzi® Spa Pools and Swim Spas

But there is, and only ever will be, one genuine Jacuzzi® Spa Pools and Swim Spas

Innovation is the bedrock upon which their business was built, and to this day they continue to pursue fresh, ground-breaking ideas From their SmartTub™ app and their PowerPro™ Jet System to their ProClear™ Filters – which promise clear, pristine

water – they continue to lead the way in an industry which they invented If you’re looking for the best features, the best quality and the best experience, then you’re looking for Jacuzzi® Spa Pools and Swim Spas! Experience today at Spa World.

Scan to see Spa World’s range of Jacuzzi® Spa Pools and Swim Spas spaworld.co.nz

Above model is the J-335™

2022 WINNERS NEW ZEALAND

POOL OF THE YEAR

Acacia Landscapes & Pool Construction

SPA OF THE YEAR

Spa World New Zealand

COMMERCIAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR

Acacia Landscapes & Pool Construction

PRODUCT OF THE YEAR

Fluidra New Zealand

INDUSTRY

BEST CONCRETE POOL BUILDER

GOLD Auckland Inground Pools

HC Alfresco Pools

BEST FIBREGLASS POOL BUILDER

GOLD Ultimate Pools

BEST PREFABRICATED

COMPOSITE POOL BUILDER

GOLD Ultimate Pools

BEST SPA RETAILER

GOLD Spa World New Zealand

INNOVATIVE PROJECT

GOLD TPEC Australia

SUSTAINABLE PROJECT

GOLD Ultimate Pools

INNOVATIVE PRODUCT AWARD

GOLD Fluidra New Zealand

HC Davey Water Products

HC Waterco

NEW PRODUCT AWARD

GOLD Fluidra New Zealand

HC Davey Water Products

HC Waterco

SUSTAINABLE PRODUCT

GOLD South Pacific Pool Enclosures

CONSTRUCTION

COMMERCIALPOOLUPTO$500,000

GOLD AcaciaLandscapes&PoolConstruction

CONCRETEPOOLUPTO$60,000

GOLD MobiusPools

CONCRETEPOOLUPTO$120,000

GOLD AucklandIngroundPools

HC AlfrescoPools

CONCRETE POOL UP TO $200,000

GOLD Acacia Landscapes & Pool Construction

HC Auckland Inground Pools

HC Mobius Pools

CONCRETE POOL OVER $200,000

GOLD Auckland Inground Pools

COMMERCIAL SPA

GOLD Acacia Landscapes & Pool Construction

SWIM SPA

GOLD Spa World New Zealand

PORTABLE SPA

GOLD Spa World New Zealand

RENOVATION UP TO $60,000

GOLD Auckland Inground Pools

RENOVATION OVER $60,000

GOLD Mobius Pools

COURTYARD OR PLUNGE POOL

GOLD Acacia Landscapes & Pool Construction

HC Plateau Pools Mayfair Pools Taupo & Rotorua

HC Ultimate Pools

FREEFORM POOL UP TO $120,000

GOLD Alfresco Pools

PREFABRICATED COMPOSITE POOL

OVER $30,000

GOLD AquaStyle Pools

HC Narellan Pools Nelson

HC Ultimate Pools

FIBREGLASS POOL & SPA

COMBINATION

GOLD Ultimate Pools

HC AquaStyle Pools

HC NZ Pools

FIBREGLASS POOL UP TO $60,000

GOLD Leisure Pools Auckland North

HC Leisure Pools Auckland North

FIBREGLASS POOL OVER $60,000

GOLD Ultimate Pools

HC Narellan Pools Gisborne

HC Pools for Canterbury

CONCRETE POOL & SPA COMBINATION

GOLD Acacia Landscapes & Pool Construction

HC Alfresco Pools

HC Mobius Pools

FIBREGLASS LAP POOL

GOLD Ultimate Pools

CONCRETE LAP POOL

GOLD Mobius Pools

HC Alfresco Pools

POOL OF THE YEAR

ACACIA LANDSCAPES & POOL CONSTRUCTION

This residential pool was designed to be a cutting edge on the harbours edge, with the aim of having the swimming pool to maximise the homes interesting u-shape. The challenge was to design the complete space with entertainment areas extending unrestrained through to a stunning pool and water feature It has a white beach area, a diving ball into 2 4m depth, a wide swim lane and a separate spa

The horizon wet edge elegantly acts as the mandatory pool fence

SPA OF THE YEAR

SPA WORLD NEW ZEALAND

The customers were building a brand new house by Papamoa beach As part of the build process Sue decide she wanted a pool she could swim in everyday for fitness and relaxation. The final decision was a swim spa, so Sue could use the pool year-round with little maintenance- they would never go back now!

COMMERCIAL

PROJECT OF THE YEAR

ACACIA LANDSCAPES & POOL CONSTRUCTION

The Halo connect system of products allows installers and users to easily and intuitively set-up and operate a range of pool sanitation and automation products with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. Designed by our Australian team, this product uses wireless communication at installation and smart device control for remote use and monitoring

PRODUCT OF THE YEAR

FLUIDRA NEW ZEALAND

The Halo connect system of products allows installers and users to easily and intuitively set-up and operate a range of pool sanitation and automation products with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. Designed in Australia, this product uses wireless communication at installation and smart device control for remote use and monitoring

INNOVATIVE PROJECT

TPEC AUSTRALIA

Our highly dedicated team worked extremely hard to meet a very specific, long-term design brief, to meet clients expectations and to work around a challenging site This retractable enclosure is as custom as they come and delivers on all requirements to provide a year-round backyard oasis.

INNOVATIVE PRODUCT AWARD

FLUIDRA NEW ZEALAND

The Halo connect system of products allows installers and users to easily and intuitively set-up and operate a range of pool sanitation and automation products with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity Designed by our Australian team, this product uses wireless communication at installation and smart device control for remote use and monitoring.

SUSTAINABLE PROJECT

ULTIMATE POOLS

Ultimate Pools was proud to become the first Climate Care Certified pool builder in NZ during 2021

This is just one outstanding example of a sustainable and energy efficient pool and equipment package which has been installed to compliment the surrounding environment. Ultimate Pools is excited to lead from the front in New Zealand to deliver sustainable Climate Care Certified swimming pool packages that inspire consumers looking to reduce their carbon, water and energy footprints

SUSTAINABLE PRODUCT AWARD

SOUTH PACIFIC POOL ENCLOSURES

Telescopic Swimming Pool Enclosures provide the client with an indoor or outdoor pool in minutes, regardless of the weather you can now use your pool 365 days of the year A pool enclosure provides reduced heating costs, less chemical use, less water evaporation, reduced pool maintenance and UV protection when fully closed. Our clients say a pool enclosure gives them more opportunity to use their pool while also providing an all weather extension of their home to relax and unwind

FLUIDRA NEW ZEALAND

The Halo connect system of products allows installers and users to easily and intuitively set-up and operate a range of pool sanitation and automation products with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity Designed in Australia, this product uses wireless communication at installation and smart device control for remote use and monitoring

BEST PREFABRICATED COMPOSITE POOL

NEW PRODUCT AWARD ULTIMATE POOLS

Industry leading and at the forefront of design and engineering, Ultimate Pools have made a name for themselves as the top prefabricated composite pool builders in NZ Our freestanding and self supporting Maxirib pools are a unique and exclusive point of difference product The recently released Express range compliments this repertoire with plunge style pools for smaller backyards. Ultimate Pools pride themselves in offering swimming pools, equipment and service of only the highest quality

THE ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY BENCHMARK FOR SWIMMING POOLS & SPAS

SPASA NZ Awards 2022 | INDUSTRY

BEST FIBREGLASS POOL BUILDER ULTIMATE POOLS

Ultimate Pools are the authorized dealers for Compass Pools in the North Auckland Area Industry leading and at the forefront of development, they have made a name for themselves as the top fibreglass pool builders in NZ With point of difference products such as self cleaning swimming pools, and options for above ground and sloped site solutions, attention to detail is everything Ultimate Pools pride themselves in offering swimming pools, equipment and service of only the highest quality.

BEST SPA RETAILER

SPA WORLD NEW ZEALAND

Spa World is a fast growing business selling Fisher, Vortex and Jacuzzi spas and swim spas from its showrooms in Australia and New Zealand Spa World was recently awarded International Distributor of the Year at the global Jacuzzi conference

The company puts health and wellness first, is the worlds first carbonneutral spa retailer, a major sponsor of KidsCan, Make-a-Wish Foundation and other charities.

SPASA NZ Awards 2022 | INDUSTRY/CONSTRUCTION

BEST CONCRETE POOL BUILDER

AUCKLAND INGROUND POOLS

Auckland Inground Pools are the trusted specialists in the construction of new custom-built concrete swimming pools and renovation of existing concrete swimming pools throughout New Zealand

Trading since March 1999 we have vast experience & knowledge, pride ourselves on service, open communication, workmanship, and ability to keep up with new innovations to produce a seamles and quality experience from the commencement to handover

CONCRETE

$60,000

MOBIUS POOLS

POOL UP TO

This timeless 8x3.5m pool meets not only the customers budget but is provides a timeless classic look that will not date The non rectified granite and glass mosaics tie together with the white beach quartzon plaster to give the owner a welcoming feel that fits the environment perfectly

CONCRETE POOL UP TO $120,000

AUCKLAND INGROUND POOLS

Having recently purchased a property the owner wanted to create a new outdoor living area that included a swimming pool that took advantage of the incredible views & magnificent sunsets they had looking towards the Manukau Harbour They wanted an area that they could entertain their young family, extended family & friends easily The timing of this project completion couldn't have been better given 2020 lockdowns occurred just after project completion which would have provided hours of fun!

CONCRETE POOL UP TO $200,000

ACACIA LANDSCAPES & POOL CONSTRUCTION

This residential pool was designed to be †cutting edge on the harbours edge, with the aim of having the swimming pool to maximise the homes interesting u-shape The challenge was to design the complete space with entertainment areas extending unrestrained through to a stunning pool and water feature It has a white beach area, a diving ball into 2 4m depth, a wide swim lane and a separate spa

The horizon wet edge elegantly acts as the mandatory pool fence.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT POOL BUILDER

Installing a new pool or spa is an exciting endeavour From the moment you start researching to the day your new pool is filled with water, you can feel the sense of anticipation growing. If everything goes according to plan, you’ll end up with a sparkling pool and bubbling spa just as you envisaged But if things go awry, your dreams could turn sour as you encounter unexpected costs and unnecessary heartache You can easily avoid the pitfalls by working with a member of the Swimming pool and Spa association (SPASA).

THE MESSAGE IS SIMPLE

Happy swimming! this is the simple message you’ll hear from any SPASA member Sure,

the actual words may vary, but the intention is the same Whether a manufacturer, builder, installer, inspector, retailer or service techni- cian, industry members know from experience that people are hap- pier and healthier when they swim more often and they are keen to spread the word

PEACE OF MIND

SPASA is the industry’s peak body, representing hundreds of individuals and businesses in the australian pool and spa sector Whether you’re looking to install or renovate a pool or spa, view the latest products or simply maintain your existing investment by keeping it in tip-top condition, a SPASA member has all the advice and expertise you need bound by a strict association code of ethics, our members are committed to delivering all goods and services to an established industry standard and with the highest levels of professionalism.

Our pool builder members are the only builders with access to SPASA contract documents developed to comply with relevant state

and federal legislation, ensuring you are receiving the utmost levels of consumer protection choosing a SPASA member delivers additional peace of mind, as association members must comply with provision of statutory warranty entitlements, which means your contract will be completed even in the event of unforeseen circumstances including contractor insolvency or death

When you entrust a SPASA member to bring your dream oasis to life, you are dealing with not only a fully licensed builder, but a qualified pool specialist as well

SETTING THE BENCHMARK

As a professional association, SPASA is committed to self-regulation of the industry the association’s representation on various government and Standards committees means that any changes to existing standards are of maximum benefit to both industry and consumers. To maintain the highest levels of expertise within the industry, the association administers a comprehensive annual industry training program for members

There are five key reasons to work with a SPASA member:

• Members join their industry association on a voluntary basis to advance the swimming pool and spa industry

• Members have a demonstrated history of successful ethical trad- ing and knowledge appropriate to their membership category • Members are at the forefront of the industry regarding their experience, professionalism and reputation

• Members have access to the latest technical standards and consumer relevant information

• Members are bound by the association’s code of ethics. our members stand apart from the rest of the industry, setting standards of skill, workmanship and ethical business behaviour that deliver the best outcomes for pool and spa owners

LOOK FOR THE SPASA MEMBERSHIP LOGO

Installing a pool is a major construction project, often involving significant amounts of new information with lots of finer detail as a consumer, you should approach your project as the substantial investment it is and be sure to carry out the due diligence that will guide well-informed decisions throughout the process You can never ask too many questions, so take your time and choose builders, contractors, suppliers and technicians wisely.

If you want the best advice and highest levels of knowledge, experience and expertise, look for the SPASA logo and speak with a member

Every homeowner that has been through the building process can tell you there’s a lot to think about type and size of pool finishes and fittings, equipment choices, fencing regulations, maintenance considerations and more that’s why the industry relies heavily on reputation and word-of-mouth referral, because no-one will ‘tell it like it is’ better than someone who has lived through the experience

AUCKLAND INGROUND POOLS

The homeowner had recently completed building a home North of Auckland that they were sharing time between their Auckland apartment This property was to eventually become their retirement home, and having spend the majority of the 2020 lockdown with family at the property, they decided what it was missing was a swimming pool that they could use in addition to the nearby surf of Waipu Beach. A family who enjoy entertaining also wanted the pool to become a simple but functional show piece.

SPA

ACACIA LANDSCAPES & POOL CONSTRUCTION

The health spa in the clubhouse at the Arvida Bethlehem Shores retirement complex has a built-in indoor spa pool, enabling the residents to enjoy the hydrotherapy benefits The water temperature is at a consent 42 degrees C with the bubbles and jets aiding relief from stress, arthritic symptoms and muscle soreness to allow for yearround relaxation

ACACIA LANDSCAPES & POOL CONSTRUCTION

The health spa in the clubhouse at the Arvida Bethlehem Shores retirement complex has a 20 metre heated indoor swimming pool, enabling the residents to enjoy a casual swim or aqua aerobic exercise class The water temperature is at a consent 32 degrees C to allow for all year round swimming

SWIM SPA

SPA WORLD NEW ZEALAND

The customers were building a brand new house by Papamoa beach As part of the build process Sue decide she wanted a pool she could swim in everyday for fitness and relaxation The final decision was a swim spa, so Sue could use the pool year-round with little maintenance- they would never go back now!

PORTABLE SPA

SPA WORLD NEW ZEALAND

For active couple Mariam and Andrew a spa was never on their radar They wanted a functional outdoor space for their family to relax in but had never spent money on luxury items, until now! The couple wanted to create a space at home for relaxing and pleasure so a spa was perfect! With very active lifestyles the couple loved the idea of installing a spa to relax in and catch up at the end of the day

RENOVATION UP TO $60,000

AUCKLAND INGROUND POOLS

The homeowner was looking for a solution where an existing kidney shaped liner pool was in constant need of repair & leaked constantly, causing worry during the water shortages The pool also needed to be modernised to match the recently renovated 1970s home Essentially, the liner pool was removed, & replaced by rebuilding a shotcrete pool inside the existing footprint to transform the outdoor living & creating a much more practical use of space using much more durable & easy care products

RENOVATION OVER $60,000 COURTYARD OR PLUNGE POOL

MOBIUS POOLS

Exceptional renovation of this rare shaped indoor clifftop pool Absolute eye for detail in re creating this retro styled masterpiece

ACACIA LANDSCAPES & POOL

CONSTRUCTION

Achieving the right proportion was vital, with pool, lawn and entertainment spaces all balanced and designed to encompass the view of Tauranga Harbour and Mount Maunganui The plunge pool is 3 x 2m with a ledge along the length designed to sit on and enjoy the surroundings It can double as a spa pool during the winter months The covers roll back and act as a headrest whilst relaxing and enjoying the spectacular view with the jets and bubbles massaging your back

FREEFORM POOL UP TO $120,000

ALFRESCO POOLS

Lagoon style, natural shaped pool with rock features and a waterfall Space was limited in this inner city section so we had to be creative about how to achieve this A raised rock garden was created between the road frontage and the pool to enhance privacy and create the feeling of being in nature The rock feature with waterfall created a backdrop for the pool and the gentle sound of the waterfall helps to combat the road noise.

PREFABRICATED

COMPOSITE

POOL OVER $30,000

AQUASTYLE POOLS

Relax and unwind at the end of the day in this luxurious plunge pool or be the life of the party at this mini retreat - the choice is yours! Making the most of a small constrained sloping site, the self-supported fibreglass pool fits seamlessly into this inner-city backyard, with the gorgeous water wall feature adding a bit of 'wow' while providing privacy from the neighbours

FIBREGLASS

POOL & SPA COMBINATION

ULTIMATE POOLS

Ultimate Pools designed this playful yet practical X-Trainer fibreglass pool and spa combo for all the family to enjoy With a stunning and unique shallow beach area, bubbler jets and a lighting display fit for a castle, this trio of depths and temperatures is an entertainers delight both during the sunshine hours and after dark

FIBREGLASS POOL UP TO $60,000

LEISURE POOLS AUCKLAND NORTH

Beautiful 7m x 3 8m Reflection Swimming Pool in Graphite Grey Installed in a Tidal Area with limited space between the House & Boundary

Fully Automatic Low Salt System with Smart Device control

Large Inverter Heat Pump with Robot Cleaner

FIBREGLASS POOL OVER $60,000

ULTIMATE POOLS

Proud above the harbor and spit of white sand in Mangawhai Heads sits the Lighthouse swimming pool In a stunning feat of architecture and design, this pool and home has been built on a sand dune to take in the most of the coastal landscape surrounding it The self cleaning swimming pool sits pristine every day of the year, positioned to be viewed from every angle and the Lighthouse tower of this unique and remarkable property

CONCRETE POOL & SPA COMBINATION

ACACIA LANDSCAPES & POOL CONSTRUCTION

A contemporary entertainment area, pool and spa designed to suit the house and clients' needs This crisp modern setting showcases a clean-lined meandering swimming pool design with one simple curve Being fully automated cleaning and covering the pool can be done with a push of a button The window allows you to look deep into the water and give the impression that the pool just ends vertically

SPASA NZ Awards 2022 | CONSTRUCTION

FIBREGLASS LAP POOL

ULTIMATE POOLS

Ultimate Pools was challenged to deliver a beautiful yet functional lap pool for this bespoke and modern new home in North Auckland Set high on the hilltop, this jaw dropping location sets the perfect scene for an architectural feat of engineering. This lap pool is the perfect combination of practicality and flawless design for a stunning contemporary finish.

CONCRETE LAP POOL

MOBIUS POOLS

Wow!! This lap pool truely stands out as a monster piece of eye candy on a stunning Matakana property It is an awesome exercise tool as well!

HOW TO MAKE YOUR POOL MORE SUSTAINABLE

WHY IS SUSTAINABILITY SO IMPORTANT RIGHT NOW?

The obvious answer to this question is climate change There are many bigger and more impactful polluters out there than swimming pools there's no doubt about that But pools (and spas) certainly use their share of resources when you zoom in on the family utility bill.

In a period where the cost of living is rising by the day, families are looking at more ways to reduce strain on their budget, and the giant hole in the ground filled with water and heated by gas certainly looks to many like a good place to start.

MAKING SUSTAINABILITY FEEL ATTAINABLE (IT’S NOT AS EXPENSIVE AS PEOPLE THINK)

Traditionallyspeaking,whenevertheideaofmakingsomething'moresustainable' wasmentioned,mostpeoplewouldinstantlybewondering"howmuchmoreisthis goingtocostme?"

The year is 2022 The world is finally coming up for air after two of the most disruptive years in living memory Households are feeling the pinch of postpandemic living and all that is brought by it As we find new focus, we're reminded that our environment is still in dire need of help As a result, sustainability is once again being seen as a priority Despite the wishful thinking of some, the pool industry is changing and will continue to do as a result of these needs In this article, we'll cover some of the key points regarding pool sustainability

Although this sentiment is definitely changing, the process is slow and sustainability still exists as something of a buzzword for a lot of people Being a part of the pool and spa industry, it's our job to alleviate some of these concerns as the truth is; sustainable pools exist to save money in the long run This is the big selling point for sustainability right now

Yes, we're all worried about the consequences of not trying to be greener, but the thing many people are worried about right now is how they can enjoy their pool at home while still fitting it into the budget.

WHAT ARE THE LEAST SUSTAINABLE PARTS OF POOLS AND SPAS?

Sointheinterestofreducingwaste,reducingtheuseofresources,andof coursetheimpactofpoolownershipontheutilitybill;whatarethemostcostly aspectsofpoolownership?

Startingfromthestart,let'stalkaboutthematerialsusedtobuildpools Themainoptionshereareconcrete, fibreglass,andvinyl;ofwhich,thelatterappearstobeclearlythemostsustainable Vinylpoolsareabletobemadeof manyrecyclablematerialsandarealsorecyclablethemselves.Fibreglassisn'ttoobadbutstillusesalotofchemicals toproduceandistrickytorecycle Finally,theleastsustainableisconcrete Theproductionofconcretehasbeena majorpolluterformanyyears,thoughthatindustryisrapidlyfindingwaystocleanupitsprocesses Concretepools arealsoagreathomeforalgae,resultingintheneedformorechemicalcontroltopreventbuild-up

Fillingthepoolitselfisanecessarystepandcan'tbeavoided Itisn'treallyoneofthemostexpensivestepsbutthe needtorefillthepoolinhottermonths,especiallyindrought-affectedareascanbeaconcern

Byfarandawaythemostexpensivepartofowningapooliswhenmakinguseofatraditionalgas-poweredpool heater Theseusealargeamountoffossilfueltorun,aswellasbeinganexpensiveportionofthemonthlypowerbill Backin2019,theSouthAustraliangovernmentestimatedagaspoolheaterwouldcostafamilyupto$17perhourof usage.Backthen,naturalgascostjustover$7agigajoule.Atthetimeofwritingthisarticle,naturalgascosts$27per gigajoule A285%increase Yikes

WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO MAKE A POOL SUSTAINABLE?

Sonowthatwe'vebeatenthepointtodeathabouttheimportanceofsustainability,let'scheckouttheoptions availabletohelppoolownersgogreen.

SolarPoolHeating

Heatingthepoolisthemostexpensiveaspectofownershipandassuch,thereareplentyofgainstobemadehere Theuseofsolarpoolheatingisabrilliantalternativethatisbecomingamoreinvitingoptionastimegoesby Theinitial outlayonasolarpoolheaterisdefinitelyaconsiderationtomake,butasthetechnologybecomesmorecompetitive, thepriceshavebeenfallingaswell Additionally,giventhecostofgasatpresent,thesavingsaffordedbysolarpower arealotmoreclear-cut

ThermalPoolCover

Thisworkshandinhandwiththesolarpoolheatingoption Byusingathermalpoolcover,thewaterretains substantiallymoreheatandislesspronetoevaporationinthesummermonthsaswell.

ChoosingSustainablePoolChemicals

Classicpoolchemicalslikechlorinehaveanotableimpactontheenvironmentmainlyduetothenatureoftheir production

Someusageofchlorineisgoingtobenecessary,evenifit'sjusta6-monthlychlorineshocktothepool.However, therearemoreandmorenaturallyoccurringmineral-basedpoolchemicalsavailableoutthere Thisalsoappliesto poolwaterstabilisersaswell

LET US HELP YOU GET YOUR DREAM POOL

If you're thinking about building, installing or renovating a pool or spa, it is important to rely on someone you can trust.

By choosing a SPASA member you can be sure that you are in good hands.