We are facing some major decisions after learning the Swim Zone Matamata pool roofing structure, and various other parts of the sports centre, are at risk in an earthquake. Earthquake-prone buildings are defined as having a New Building Standard score of less than 33% of design requirements and the facility has areas ranging between 25% and 30%.

Council believes it is important for the user groups and wider public to know about this risk. “While there’s a low likelihood of an earthquake of a magnitude that would pose a threat, it’s important people know what we have identified and understand what issues Council is faced with,” said Chief Executive Don McLeod.

The complex was built over a period of 30-40 years from the 1960s onwards. The current indoor pool roof was finished in the late 1980s and while it has performed well in a harsh environment, it was identified as being due for replacement.

McLeod explained that an indoor pool creates a challenging environment due to the heat, and high moisture and chlorine levels. “We’ve known for some time the rafters needed to be replaced. What we didn’t know is the whole support system that holds the roof in place doesn’t meet today’s building code for earthquakes.”

A review of the pool’s roof revealed that the entire roof support system needs replacing, from the foundations up. “In effect we need to start again,” says McLeod.

The rest of the sports centre’s structures were also assessed, and with some dating as far back as the late 1960s, they were also found to fall short of the minimum modern earthquake standards.

McLeod has indicated it is too early to know how this issue will be addressed but it is being treated with urgency. “We want to give clarity and certainty to the community as soon as we can. Given the safety concerns and significant cost involved in anything we do, we need to make sure we weigh up all the options carefully.” In the meantime all planned upgrades, including the painting of the pool, are on hold.

“We think the community would expect public buildings to be compliant, but we’re also conscious of the impact any decisions may have on its users. It’s important that people are informed of the situation and can make choices in the short term while we consider matters further,” said McLeod.

The key users have been informed and we will continue to work with them while we consider how to address the earthquake prone areas of Swim Zone.

Here's what pool users need to know -

From Thursday 29 April 2021

• Swim Zone Matamata indoor pool, indoor pool changing facilities and spa will close until further notice.

• The heated outdoor pool and outdoor changing facilities will be available during normal opening hours, and the toddler and dive pools are being filled and heated as quickly as possible. Aqua classes are on hold until the dive pool is in operation.

• Customers should enter through the main reception and walk through to the outdoor pool area. Swim Zone staff will be there to assist.

• Customers can continue to use concession cards and memberships at the outdoor pools OR these are valid at our Swim Zone Te Aroha pool. However, customers can request a reimbursement given the change to the operating facilities.

• Fit Zone and the squash facilities will continue to operate over the coming months.