Everything you need to know about installing a swimming pool in Auckland

Sorry there’s no quick answer! Both pools have their merits but they also come with certain drawbacks. You need to do your homework before committing to either.

Concrete Pools: The Pros and  Cons

• Customisation: concrete pools offer limitless possibilities. Whether you want a round, rectangle or infinity pool, concrete can be tailored to fit your vision (and your site). You can also choose from a variety of luxurious pool finishes including tiles, pebbles and plaster.
• Durability and Longevity: With a proper pool maintenance program, concrete pools can last several decades. They can withstand heavy use and extreme weather conditions
• Installation time: Concrete pools require an extended installation process. Building a concrete pool in Auckland can take several months depending on your size, complexity of design (and the Auckland Council pool consent process!).
• Pool Costs: In almost all cases, a concrete pool will cost you more. This is often due to the engineering required for your beautiful bespoke pool as well as the additional materials.

Fibreglass Pools: The Pros and Cons

• Quick Installation: Fibreglass pools are pre-manufactured making installation fast. Most of the fibreglass pool companies we work with are based in Auckland, saving you even more precious time. Once we’ve excavated your site, the pool shell can be delivered and installed by Blackbird in as little as a week or two.
• Cost-Effective: in most cases, fibreglass pools are definitely a more budget-friendly option. Real savings can also be had from lower pool maintenance costs over time. No resurfacing required.
• Limited Customisation: Inground pools in New Zealand come in pre-designed molds which limits the options for customisation. The finishing options are also limited compared to concrete pools. Ultimately they may not appear quite as luxurious but with some clever hard and soft landscaping around your pool, you’ll be amazed at the result.

Which pool lasts longer – Concrete or Fibreglass?

Again there’s actually no simple answer here. Traditionally concrete pools have been known to last longer than fibreglass but that really depends on your finishes and commitment to an ongoing pool maintenance program.

Depending on the type of pool, you may need a building consent for your pool, pool fencing or both. You may also need it for your decking requirements around your pool.

You will not need a building consent for your pool or spa if it sits directly on the ground, or in the ground, and it’s capacity is less than or equal to 35,000 litres.

As you can imagine, pool legislation is complex. We recommend you talk to an Auckland pool building company with lots of experience in navigating the complexities involved. At Blackbird Projects we can take care of the pool process from concept to creation and everything in-between. As a start point, here is a link the the Auckland Council website with further details. You may feel a little overwhelmed so best to chat to us!

Auckland Council Pool Consent

Assuming you have Auckland Council Consent (if required), a concrete pool usually takes a minimum of 3-4 months. This includes site excavation, framing, concrete pour, pool curing time and landscaping around your pool site (tiles, decking, fencing etc). Installation of fibreglass pools takes approx 2-3 months depending on landscaping requirements.

• Salt Water versus Chlorine: Again there are a number of pros and cons for both. A good local pool builder will be able to talk you through these in detail, as it really comes down to personal choice. At Blackbird Projects we install both options.
• Pool Gates and Fencing: There are so many beautiful options. At Blackbird Projects we are constantly looking at trends and technology in the pool industry. We have a huge gallery of images to show you from pool projects around Auckland from Herne Bay to Devonport and beyond. Glass versus timber pool fencing? We’ll show you ideas you’ve never even thought of!
• Should I heat my pool? It depends on your budget, but if you’ve invested in a pool, wouldn’t you want to maximize its use year-round?
• Cost of Installing a Pool in Auckland: As you can imagine, this can vary wildly but we suggest you start with a minimum budget of $60,000. It’s not uncommon for pools and landscaping to cost upwards of $200,000

We recommend you use an Auckland pool builder & installer who can offer a full service. This will save you time, stress and money in the long-run. Having a one-stop-shop to look after your pool project has huge advantages. At Blackbird Projects we have a team of qualified builders, landscapers, excavators and pool installers. Pool services we offer:

• Free site visits and advice
• Full landscape design for your pool area using our qualified Landscape Architects
• Pool Consent Process
• Pool Planting: Did you know there are certain plants that you should never plant near your pool?
• Pool Surrounds: Decking, fencing, pool tiles, coping stones, in-built spas, hot tubs and luxury poolhouses. We can look after all of this for you. Outdoor kitchens and Pergolas are also our specialty.

For a FREE pool consultation and quote, give us a call today on 0800 30 30 11 or fill out our online enquiry form below and a member of the team will be in touch with you shortly.