Water Safety New Zealand is calling for portable pools under 1.2 metres to be withdrawn from sale.
It also agrees with the coroner’s recommendation temporary pools 1.2 metres and higher need to have a gated entry, after an investigation into child drownings.
Since 2015, 54 children aged five and under have drowned in New Zealand – 19 of which were in pools.
But it was the summer of 2021 to 2022 which prompted an investigation by the coroner, when eight children under the age of six drowned.
Water Safety NZ’s Gavin Walker said the tragedies “highlight some lessons that must be taken seriously and action that needs to be taken”.
The coroner has made several recommendations following the investigation. One recommendation said portable pools 1.2 metres or higher should only be sold with an appropriate safety gated entry.
Walker agreed with the recommendation.
“If they’re not fenced, they’re not safe,” Walker said.
Auckland Council said it’s important buyers read the warning signs on portable pool boxes or online, and ensure they’re compliant with the building code.
The council’s Wayne Daniel, who works in swimming pool compliance, said a lot of concerned residents are concerned about pop-up pools.
“They’re concerned about the safety of the children.”
Water Safety NZ is calling for portable pools to be treated the same as any permanent pool – and said if they’re not, it’s time for them to go.
“Most New Zealand-based retailers already include some pretty good advice on the need to fence these pools,” Walker said. “But the practical reality is, most people don’t appear to be following that advice because of the cost and complexity.”
