Tōtara Park Pools

Tucked inside the 216-hectare Tōtara Park in Manurewa, Tōtara Park Pools offers a classic outdoor summer swimming experience surrounded by native bush. The complex runs a lap and leisure pool alongside a toddlers' pool — both unheated and sitting at around 21–22°C — so the water keeps things brisk and refreshing.

The broader park setting means a swim can stretch into a full day out: playgrounds, basketball courts, tennis courts, and picnic areas are all within reach. A disability hoist serves the main pool, and supervision wristbands are issued at the gate to help lifeguards keep track of younger swimmers. Swimming is free for Aucklanders aged 16 and under at all Auckland Council-owned pools.

The pool complex can also be hired outside regular hours for private events, accommodating up to 200 people — handy for birthday parties or community gatherings. It opens for the summer season from mid-December through to the end of February each year.