GDC ticking off milestones as Kiwa Pools opening nears

The wait for Gisborne’s Kiwa Pools is almost over, with the facility due to open in spring. Picture by Paul Rickard

The $46 million Kiwa Pools facility is almost complete.

“We are planning for a Kiwa Pools opening in time for spring,” Gisborne District Council chief executive Nedine Thatcher Swann said.

Delays had been experienced in the construction due to a few external factors, she said.

“Understandably there were supply chain issues and difficulties with subcontractors getting in and out of our rohe after the extended national state of emergency with Cyclone Gabrielle. Covid played its part as well.

“However, things are now progressing well, inside and externally, and we’re moving in the right direction for opening in time for spring.”

Ms Thatcher Swann said milestones over the past few months included the removal of all the birdcage scaffolding within the main pool hall, all the acoustic tiles being installed on the ceiling and  the pouring of the concrete concourse for the pool deck around all the pools.

“We have begun installing the exterior glazing (windows), with the high-level windows above the café area the first to be completed.

“We are also making great progress in installing the pool liners in the learn-to-swim and 50-metre pools.

“The hydro pool is installed and looking great. It has even got water.

“Installation of solar panels is almost complete.”