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Make a splash at these toddler pools this summer

Source: Auckland Council

As Auckland temperatures rise, many tots and toddlers will enjoy cooling off in one of the regions’ pools this summer – even if they haven’t learnt the word pool yet. There are many toddler-friendly pools around Auckland ready to help your child make a splash, helping them to stay cool, learn life-long skills and gain confidence in the water.

Toddler pools and paddling pools are a great way for little ones to get comfortable around water. By having a dedicated pool, toddlers can have fun while learning water skills without the risk of colliding with older children. These pools are especially designed to make the swimming experience more enjoyable for little ones – the shallow water allows them to touch the bottom easily and often these pools are slightly warmer. Make sure to check the opening hours of toddler pools as they may be closed at times when adult pools are open.

Safety first

Toddlers are a handful in or out of the water, and safety is crucial when swimming with small children. Pools for toddlers make it easier for adults to focus their attention on little ones in the pool. Never turn your back on a toddler in the water – our safety rules state that a caregiver 17 years and over must be within arm’s reach of children under four at all times.

Children aged 5-10 must be supervised and adults must be close enough to provide immediate assistance.

Follow the child-to-adult ratios when supervising your children. One adult should accompany no more than two children aged four and under; for children aged 5-10 the ratio is four children to one adult. Please note that for hygiene reasons children under three must wear a waterproof swimming nappy – an easy way to keep the nappy in place is by dressing your child in togs over the top.

Learn a life skill

Babies as young as six months can take part in swimming lessons at Auckland Council’s pool and leisure centres. There is a dedicated babies class for infants aged six months to one year, and for kids aged 1-3 there are three toddler classes, based on your child’s ability to submerge on cue and confidence to swim independently. For kids aged 3-5 there are three dedicated pre-school classes. Unsure which class suits your child? Check out this swim level flow chart or book an assessment.

Unsure of your toddler’s swimming ability? Book an assessment to make sure you enroll your child in the right swimming class.

Six toddler pools to try

There are many toddler pools to choose from around the region, but here are a few of our favourites.

1. Lloyd Elsmore Park Pool and Leisure Centre

Located in Pakuranga, this is the perfect spot for kids and toddlers. The indoor splash pool is 33°C and features a fountain so littlies can play and get used to the feeling of water on their face. The learners’ pool features a wheelchair accessibility ramp and has depth ranges of 0.75m-0.9m. The facility also has an outdoor splashpad, which is another fun way to cool off during summer.

Opening hours:

  • Toddler splash pool: 30am-5.15pm

  • Splash pad: 10am-6pm (weather dependent, December-March/April)

2. Albany Stadium Pool

Toddlers and young ones are well catered for at Albany Stadium Pool. The dedicated toddler pool is heated to 31°C and features a play centre and slide – it’s wheelchair accessible and water wheelchairs are available. There’s also an indoor splash pad, over-the-pool rock climbing wall and a 20m programmes pool for swimming lessons.

Toddler pool hours:

  • Monday-Friday 30am-7pm

  • Saturday-Sunday 8am-7pm

Toddlers can enjoy the pool and splash play area at Albany Stadium Pool.

3. Ōtara Pool and Leisure Centre

This fantastic community facility features a toddlers’ pool heated to a comfy temperature of 32°C. A colourful water feature helps kids have fun while learning important water skills. The 15m learners’ pool is a great option for older children advancing with their swimming, and older kids can also enjoy the outdoor pool in the summer months.

Toddler pool hours:

Older children enjoying the learners’ pool at Ōtara Pool and Leisure Centre.

4. Grey Lynn Paddling Pool

This dedicated outdoor toddler pool is popular with tots during the summer months. The hexagonal pool has a maximum depth of 0.75m, is sheltered from the sun by shade sails and is patrolled by a lifeguard during opening hours. It’s right next to a playground so your kids will stay active wet or dry.

Toddler pool hours:

Shade sail offer extra sun protection at the outdoor Grey Lynn Paddling Pool.

5. Manurewa Pool and Leisure Centre

This all-ages centre features a toddlers’ splash pool with a fun umbrella fountain. The water is heated to a balmy 32°C. The learners’ pool features three lanes making it great for swim lessons, and it can also be accessed by a ramp.

Toddler pool hours:

Tots will enjoy the toddler splash pool at Manurewa Pool and Leisure Centre, heated to a balmy 32°C.

6. Moana Nui-a-Kiwa Pool and Leisure Centre

This facility in Māngere is fun central all year round. Indoors there’s a toddlers’ pool that’s 0.3-0.9m deep, and features a friendly orca sculpture and a splash pool with a bubble pit. The learners’ pool has a depth of 0.75-1.1m, great for lessons. Outdoors there’s a splash pad, and for older kids there’s a hydroslide and a dedicated bombing pool so your kids can learn to pop a manu.

Toddler pool hours:

Click here for a full list of Auckland Council pools and opening hours

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Update on Grey Lynn intentional damage

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

A woman allegedly responsible for a raft of smashed windows will be out of the community for at least three months.

Police have been investigating recent reports of wilful damage on Sackville Street in Grey Lynn.

On Monday, frontline Police located a 39-year-old Grey Lynn woman and charged her with intentional damage.

Auckland City West’s Area Commander, Inspector Alisse Robertson, says Police have since successfully opposed the woman’s bail.

“The woman will be remanded in custody until her next appearance on 15 April in the Auckland District Court,” she says.

“I know these ongoing occurrences have caused angst and frustration amongst residents, so we are providing the community with an update for reassurance.”

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

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Activist News – The government has begun to “go through the motions” of questioning Israeli soldiers at the border but it’s just a “look busy” policy – too little too late! – PSNA

Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

 

The government has begun questioning Israeli soldiers about their military service in Gaza at the New Zealand border as revealed in a Times of Israel story today which says:

 

“New Zealand’s government immigration authority has begun to require Israelis applying for a visa to report details of their military service as a condition for entry, and at least one person has been denied admission after doing so, The Times of Israel has learned”

 

However, the details of the questions asked reveals the government is simply “going through the motions” to weed out possible war criminals.

 

The key questions asked are:

 

  • “Have you been associated with any intelligence service or group, or law enforcement agency?”
  • “Have you been associated with any group or organization that has used or promoted violence or human rights abuses to further their aims?”
  • “Have you committed or been involved in war crimes, crimes against humanity, or human rights abuses?”

 

It’s obvious how every soldier will answer those questions and New Zealand is none the wiser.  

 

What the story also reveals is that the rejection rate for visas for Israelis coming here has not changed since the genocide began in Gaza.

 

An analysis of INZ statistical data indicates that the rejection rate for Israeli visa applications to New Zealand during the war has been approximately four percent. This is not unusually high compared to previous years or the rejection rates for citizens of other developed countries.

 

It’s clear the questioning of Israeli soldiers is not revealing people involved in war crimes and is a “look busy” policy. This gives more reason for the government to adopt PSNA policy and suspend all visas for anyone who has served in the IDF since 7 October 2023.

 

The government must also uphold the International Court of Justice Advisory opinion (19 July 2024) which calls on the government to end support for Israel’s illegal occupation. This means we should also deny entry to every Israeli wanting to visit here who has an address in an illegal Israeli settlement in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

  

John Minto

National Chair

Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

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Social Issues – IHC urges collective fix to address root causes of child poverty

Source: IHC

IHC is urging policymakers, educators and the community to come together to address the root causes of poverty and ensure that no child is left behind, including children with an intellectual disability.

A new survey from KidsCan has found that thousands of children in New Zealand are beginning the school year without essential basics.

IHC Director of Advocacy Tania Thomas says these findings are a call to action.

“Children with intellectual disabilities are not just facing much higher financial hardship than most; they’re facing exclusion from opportunities to thrive and participate in society,” says Tania. “It’s unacceptable, and we must do better.”

Forthcoming research from IHC, using data from Stats NZ’s integrated data infrastructure, sheds light on the disproportionate and rarely discussed impact of the child poverty crisis on intellectually disabled children. The findings, set to be published in February, reveal that these children are twice as likely as their peers to experience material hardship.

Key findings include:

Financial Strain: 42 percent of households with an intellectually disabled child cannot pay an unavoidable bill within a month without borrowing, compared to 18 percent of households in the general population.
Food Insecurity: People with intellectual disability are three times more likely than other New Zealanders to miss out on meals with meat or a vegetarian equivalent at least every second day.
Social Exclusion: Children with an intellectual disability experience significant barriers to social participation, such as their family being unable to afford school trips or events (13 percent vs. 2 percent in the general population) and not hosting friends to play and eat (26 percent vs. 9 percent in the general population).
Hardship Increases with Age: Unlike the general population, people with an intellectual disability have increased levels of hardship as they age.

Tania says this IHC research highlights the compounded disadvantages that families of intellectually disabled children face, particularly as they prepare for the school year.

“Essential expenses such as uniforms, stationery and extracurricular activities strain already stretched budgets, leaving many children with an intellectual disability at a disadvantage from the outset.

“Investing in targeted support for families with intellectually disabled children is not only an ethical imperative but also a societal one.”

About IHC New Zealand

IHC New Zealand advocates for the rights, inclusion and welfare of all people with intellectual disabilities and supports them to live satisfying lives in the community. IHC provides advocacy, volunteering, events, membership associations and fundraising. It is part of the IHC Group, which also includes IDEA Services, Choices NZ and Accessible Properties.

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Release: More road deaths likely if evidence not followed

Source: New Zealand Labour Party

Any road deaths as a result of increased speed limits will now be on the Government’s hands.

“Where it is safe to do so, we do not oppose raising speed limits. However, the Government’s making many of these changes based on a campaign promise, rather than evidence,” Labour’s transport spokesperson Tangi Utikere said.

“We know this, because the previous Transport Minister encouraged National Party supporters to submit on his own bill. He was not interested in the opposing views of safety campaigners.

“I would like to see the evidence that it is safe to raise speed limits on these roads, not the National Party opinion that it is.

“It is an absolute tragedy that we go into every long weekend expecting a road toll. It should not be normal for Kiwis to lose loved ones to people driving too fast.

“While we do not oppose travelling at faster speeds on roads where it is safe to do so, I do remain concerned about the potential for more deaths on the roads as a result of these changes,” Tangi Utikere said.

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Citizenship applications completed up 54 per cent in December

Source: New Zealand Government

Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says the Department of Internal Affairs [the Department] has achieved significant progress in completing applications for New Zealand citizenship. 

“December 2024 saw the Department complete 5,661 citizenship applications, the most for any month in 2024. This is a 54 per cent increase compared to the 3,685 applications completed during December 2023,” says Ms van Velden.

“I have asked the Department to focus efforts on reducing the number of outstanding applications, and I am pleased to see progress being made. The number of work-in-progress applications has dropped from 28,544 on 27 November 2023 to 18,749 in January 2025, a drop of 34 per cent.

“At the start of December 2024, the oldest applications being picked up for processing for the first time were submitted a year prior. As of January 2025, the oldest applications being picked up are from late March 2024.” 

The Department has been working to cross-skill staff to process passport, citizenship, and digital identity [RealMe] applications. The more adaptable workforce is better able to respond to fluctuations in demand for different products, leading to increased productivity and better outcomes for New Zealanders.

“I know that receiving the grant of New Zealand citizenship is a significant moment in a person’s life, and I have heard from many individuals about the impact that delays to obtaining citizenship can have on them and their family. I will continue to remain focussed on reducing citizenship wait times and ensuring high standards of service,” says Ms van Velden. 

In December 2024 the Department also launched a public dashboard showing measures of output and average processing time across their life and identity products, including citizenship. The dashboard can be accessed here: https://www.dia.govt.nz/Life-and-Identity-Services-Performance-Measures-Dashboard

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Fleeing driver: Charges confirmed

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

A man is expected in court today, following a fleeing driver incident across much of central Auckland.

On Tuesday, a vehicle with mismatching plates was located on the Northwestern Motorway.

After allegedly failing to stop for Police, the matter concluded at Dress Smart shopping centre in Onehunga.

Auckland City Road Policing Manager acting Inspector Scott Jones says the vehicle the man was driving has since been confirmed as stolen.

“A 31-year-old Northland man is expected to appear in the Auckland District Court today,” he says.

“He faces charges of aggravated assault, reckless driving, failing to stop and unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.”

During the fleeing driver incident, it was established the man was also sought in relation to other active court matters, including aggravated robbery. 

“It’s fortunate that neither the public nor Police staff suffered any injuries as a result of the man’s alleged actions yesterday afternoon,” acting Inspector Jones says.

ENDS

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

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Police seek information on Ōkaihau hit-and-run

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Northland Police is investigating the fatal hit-and-run of a cyclist in Ōkaihau last night.

An investigation team is forming in the small Far North town to locate the person responsible.

Detective Senior Sergeant Kevan Verry, of Northland CIB, says Police were contacted by Settlers Way residents at around 10.15pm on 28 January.

“We believe the collision between a cyclist and vehicle has occurred between 10pm and 10.15pm on that road,” he says.

“Tragically, it has resulted in a 19-year-old dying from his injuries at the scene.”

In the small hours of the morning, a traffic crash analyst attended and examined the scene.

“A criminal investigation is now underway, and detectives are working to piece together who is responsible,” Detective Senior Sergeant Verry says.

“Police will be in the Ōkaihau township as part of our investigation, seeking witnesses and further information.”

Investigators want to hear from anyone in the area last night that has information.

“Police will be searching for a vehicle that has obvious signs of damage.

“A young man has lost his life, and it’s important that anyone in the community with information does the right thing and speaks up now.”

Victim Support has been engaged for the cyclist’s family.

“Our thoughts are with the family at this difficult time and with what they are going through.”

Anyone who may have witnessed the lead up or aftermath of the incident, or who has any information, is asked to contact Police.

Update Police online or call 105, using the reference number 250129/0360.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

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Animal Welfare – Warmer weather brings increased risks to dogs – NZVA

Source: NZ Veterinary Association

Dog owners are being warned to keep their pets away from highly toxic karaka berries and algal blooms this summer, and to contact their veterinarian immediately if they think their dog has swallowed them.
The New Zealand Veterinary Association Te Pae Kīrehe (NZVA) encourages owners to walk dogs on a leash if toxic algae or karaka berries could be in the vicinity as both can make dogs incredibly ill.
NZVA Head of Veterinary Services Companion Animal Sally Cory says at this time of year pets are spending more time outdoors and have more access to things that can harm them. “Unfortunately, dogs are attracted to karaka berries and toxic algae because of the strong smell,” she says. “Even small amounts can be dangerous, so if you think your dog has eaten karaka berries or toxic algae, call your veterinarian immediately and they will advise you what to do next.”
The karaka tree fruits annually between January and April, dropping orange berries containing the alkaloid, karakin, which may be poisonous to dogs. Consumption of the berries by canines – who love their sweet taste – can lead to impaired neurological function, respiratory failure, and even death. Clinical signs can be delayed from between 24 hours and a week or more following ingestion.
Toxic algae, also known as cyanobacteria, appears in rivers and lakes as black, green, or brown slime on rocks, and as brown or black ‘mats’. Symptoms can develop within 30 minutes and include panting, lethargy, muscle tremors, twitching, and convulsions.
“When walking your dog near fresh water at this time of year, be mindful if it’s been dry and the water is potentially stagnant, or if it has rained heavily after a dry period as this can cause algae mats to dislodge,” Sally says. “Toxic algae has a strong, musty odour which dogs are attracted to and the toxic reaction can be fast. Remember if humans are advised not to swim somewhere, dogs shouldn’t swim there either.”
Sally advises dog owners to keep an eye on information provided by local councils as signage may not always be installed at parks, rivers, and lakes. You can look up the potential risks of a destination by visiting Land Air Water Aotearoa.
Sally also urges puppy and dog owners to make sure their pets are fully vaccinated against parvovirus as cases tend to rise when dogs spend more time in public spaces when the weather is warmer. Dogs can become infected by ingesting the virus through direct contact with contaminated faeces, surfaces, or objects, such as food bowls. The virus can even be transmitted on footwear. Signs of illness usually occur within three to seven days of exposure and may include severe, often bloody diarrhoea; vomiting; lethargy; decreased appetite; fever or low body temperature; rapid dehydration; and in severe cases, death.
“We have started to see an increase in parvovirus cases already this season,” Sally says. “It is a highly contagious, viral disease, but it is preventable with appropriate vaccination.” Those most at risk are young (six weeks to six months), unvaccinated, or incompletely vaccinated puppies.
Similarly, vaccinations need to be kept up-to-date for canine cough (kennel cough), an infectious respiratory disease that spreads when dogs are in close contact, such as at the beach, in parks, on walks, and in boarding kennels or daycare facilities. Talk to your veterinarian to ensure your dog is protected against parvovirus and canine cough.
The summer months also bring the risk of bee sting reactions, incidents of dogs swallowing too much salt water, and grass seeds becoming lodged in ears and between toes, so keep an eye out for these too while out and about enjoying the warmer weather.
Signs of karaka poisoning include:
– Vomiting or diarrhoea
– Abdominal pain
– Reduced appetite
– Paralysis of back legs
– Loss of balance
– Convulsions
– Breathing slower than usual (which can lead to paralysis of breathing muscles).
– If you think your dog has eaten any karaka berries, contact your vet immediately.
Signs of toxic algae poisoning include:
– Panting
– Lethargy
– Muscle tremors
– Twitching
– Convulsions
– If your dog is showing any of these symptoms after being in contact with a waterway, contact your veterinarian immediately.
More information on these topics can be found on the NZVA website:
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Health – Proper funding of primary care nurses key to Kiwis getting into GPs – NZNO

Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

Primary care nurses must be paid the same as hospital nurses to fix the chronic staff shortages causing New Zealanders to be turned away from GP clinics, the New Zealand Nurses Organisation Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa (NZNO) says.
A Victoria University of Wellington study has found 36% of New Zealand’s general practices didn’t take new enrolments in 2024, with workforce shortages cited as the major reason people were being turned away.
NZNO’s New Zealand College of Primary Health Care Nurses chair Tracey Morgan says the Coalition Government’s focus on the health sector is misdirected.
“While the Government is focused on the five health targets, they are ignoring the most pressing issue – chronic staff shortages in primary care.
“When people can’t get into their GP, they can end up at hospital even sicker. This puts more pressure on our already stretched hospitals and the Government’s own targets will be harder to meet,” Tracey Morgan says.
Primary care nurses are leaving GP clinics to work in hospitals because they get paid 18% more despite having the same skills and qualifications, she says.
“It is time for the Government to pay primary care nurses the same as their hospital counterparts and introduce a sustainable funding model for the primary care sector.
“Until this is done, it is everyday New Zealanders who are trying to see a doctor when they are sick who will pay the price.
“New Health Minister Simeon Brown has said he is ‘an advocate for everyday Kiwis who simply want timely, quality healthcare when they need it’. Here is his solution,” Tracey Morgan says.