Taupo District pools to be free to children five and under

Taupo District children aged five and under will get free entry to the AC Baths, Turtle Pools and Mangakino pools from July 1, 2018.

The decision was made during deliberations on the council's draft Long-term Plan this week. In addition, proposed entry fee increases will not be introduced and a wider range of local discounts will be investigated in the lead up to the next Annual Plan.

Mayor David Trewavas said Council had heard the message from various submitters that some children were not developing swimming skills as well as they should be due to the cost of entry to the pools, particularly for families.

"We live beside the largest body of fresh water in the country," said Mr Trewavas, "so it is vital that we take the lead and make sure the kids in our district are able to hone their water safety skills from a very young age. It will mean $70,000 less revenue, but cost should not be a issue when we are talking about the safety of our children."

The draft Long-term Plan will be adopted by council for audit on May 29.

May 17 2018

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Lisa NairneHead of Communications and Customer Relations 07 376 0762 027 839 8410

Andy TaylorSenior Communications Advisor 07 376 0781 027 570 4651