Public pools have the third-highest number of water-related incidents, so it's important we recognise the role these facilities play in helping reduce those numbers.
To help public facilities reduce drowning numbers Recreation Aotearoa and Water Safety NZ jointly developed the Poolsafe Programme in 2001.
The Poolsafe Programme is a voluntary, nationally recognised accreditation programme that helps ensure public swimming pools are safe and well-managed, by checking they meet high standards for safety, water quality, and lifeguard supervision.
*Data from NZ Recreation 2024 Annual Report
What does Poolsafe involve?
Poolsafe uses a peer-assessment process, where qualified assessors — often from councils, aquatic centres, or safety organisations — independently review:
- Lifeguard qualifications and supervision
- Emergency and risk management procedures
- Water quality systems
- Facility layout and safety signage
- Equipment and operational policies
Who’s involved?
- There are over 214 public swimming pools across New Zealand
- More than 150 pools are currently accredited through the Poolsafe Programme.
- There are 3992 Lifeguards registered
- Assessors come from a wide range of organisations, including local councils, recreation providers, and education institutions. There are 160 accredited assessors.
*figures as at July 2024, Pool safe Annual Report 2024
Why Poolsafe matters
Poolsafe accreditation:
- Helps prevent drowning and water-related injuries through high safety standards
- Ensures pools are well-managed and lifeguards are properly trained
- Builds public trust in aquatic facilities across the motu
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