Making Memories with Dave Hume Pool.
Dave Hume Pool is a cherished part of summer in Katikati. Each season, families, schools, swim clubs, fitness enthusiasts, and community groups come together to enjoy its welcoming atmosphere and strong community spirit. For many residents, memories of the pool begin with childhood swimming lessons, school sports days, and long summer afternoons spent with friends and whānau.
For more than 50 years, Dave Hume Pool has been a cornerstone of the Katikati community - where locals have learned to swim, built water confidence, stayed active, and made lasting memories for generations.
In 2025, the facility entered a new chapter, with Bay Venues becoming the kaitiaki of Dave Hume Pool on behalf of Western Bay of Plenty District Council. While management has changed, the focus remains the same: preserving the local pool feel the community loves, while introducing new programmes, experiences, and opportunities. Upgrades to the pool and heating system also mean the venue can now operate for longer, with the season extended to nine months of the year.
The facility offers something for everyone, including a six-lane, 25-metre pool heated to approximately 28°C, a dedicated learn-to-swim pool and toddler pool heated to between 32–34°C, spacious picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and an outdoor fitness gym. Recent upgrades have also improved accessibility, including the installation of a mobility hoist to help ensure more members of the community can enjoy the pool.
Locals have welcomed the pool refurbishments, with over 1800 extra visits during the summer season, and an extra 5000 visits during the extended opening period from May – June.
Water safety remains at the heart of the pool’s purpose. In a country surrounded by beaches, rivers, and lakes, learning to swim is an essential life skill. Through BaySwim, Bay Venues’ award-winning learn-to-swim programme, tamariki can build confidence and develop water skills in small classes led by supportive, experienced instructors. As swimmers progress, BaySwim pathways support continued development through squad swimming, while adult lessons provide opportunities for people of all ages to strengthen their skills.
Looking ahead, Dave Hume Pool continues to be a place where people connect, stay active, and make memories. The new Swim & Gym offering creates a community wellbeing destination, bringing together swimming, outdoor gym facilities, AquaFit classes, and other group fitness options in one location. It provides more ways for people of all ages and abilities to stay active, improve their health and wellbeing, and connect with others.
Dave Hume Pool will reopen on Monday 28 September, welcoming the community back for another season of swimming, learning, fitness, and fun. More than just a pool, it remains a community hub, proudly serving Katikati today and for generations to come.
Davehumepool.co.nz
