But for the first six months of this year, water consumption had leapt to 17,849 cubic metres or 17.8 million litres. That cost the trust running the complex about $15,400 in water charges.
Then another reading, done just 17 days later, showed another 1.7 million litres had been "consumed", all of it pumped in from the city's water supply.
Water has been leaking from both pools, but until they are fully investigated, officers do not know if the problem is leaks in the pools or from the pipes under the pools.
Some minor cracks in the wall of the learners' pool had been repaired a number of times but had reopened after the July 21 earthquake.
Problems with cracks and slipping in the area were not new, but the massive water loss is a major concern.
As the start of a new swimming season draws closer, the council will have to make decisions.
Mayor Annette Main said council needed all the detail about costs of repairs before it could make an informed decision.
Councillor Rangi Wills said keeping the pool open must be a council priority.
"We trumpet the fact we're a family-friendly city, but at the first sign of trouble we run for cover," Mr Wills said.
"It's an investment in our children's future, because there are people in Wanganui who can't afford to go to the Splash Centre."
Councillor Ray Stevens said it was not a matter of council being scared, "but money is going to have to be thrown at this, so how much will it cost?"
The pool is managed and operated by the Wanganui East Pool Trust.
