How much does a swimming pool cost

Having a cooling backyard pool to plunge into on a hot summer’s days is a dream for many ... If you’re planning on splashing out on a new pool this summer, here’s some info to help you make the best decision.

What size should a residential swimming pool be?

Even the smallest pool will take up a fair amount of space on your property, especially when you take council regulations into account. There are different council regulations on distance from site boundaries. In New Zealand, it’s usually 3m from a rear boundary and 1.2m from side boundaries, but council’s in different countries will all differ regionally, so your landscape designer will need to check before you start thinking about where the pool will be installed.

The rule of thumb is that a pool should allow for 5sq m per user, so for a family of four, the pool will probably be around 4.5m x 9m. Once the pool surrounds are taken into consideration, the land requirement for a pool is likely to be about 130sq m.

Nichola Vague from our Tauranga Zones Landscaping branch says her advice would be to install a pool appropriate for the size property you have and reflective of how often you will use it, and how many people will be expected to use it.

“The most important thing is that the style and shape of the pool work with the style of your property and surrounding landscape. Also, that the size of the pool allows for space for circulation around the pool and area to lounge, sit and access the pool.”

How much do above ground pools cost?

Swimming pools can be made from a range of different materials, and each has its own pros and cons. The cheapest pools on the market are the above-ground variety. Made from vinyl and steel, above-ground pools are an excellent option for those on a tighter budget. You are looking at around NZ$10,000 (or US$5,000) for these pools. You can choose to install the pool yourself, but we recommend that you work with a landscaping specialist for best results. Vinyl pools can also be installed in-ground, but this more expensive.

Vinyl pool above-ground installation costs

From $10,000 NZD or $5,000 USD*, excluding installation

How much do fibreglass pools cost?

Fibreglass pools are the most common in-ground option. They are moulded to shape then installed in the ground after a hole is dug and appropriate plumbing laid. Fibreglass is a more durable product than vinyl, but more expensive; from NZD$60,000 (or US$55,000).

Fibreglass pool costs 

From $60,000 NZD or $55,000 USD*, including installation.

How much do concrete pools cost?

Concrete pools allow for greater options when it comes to shape and size. These bespoke pools are the most expensive option, with pools costing upwards of NZ$70,000 (or US$65,000). Concrete for these pools is poured after a framework grid is built into the hole dug by the construction crew. These pools are very durable and can have a range of finishes, including tiles and aggregates. These are the rock stars of the pool world, and you’ll be paying up to around $100,000+ for the completed pool and landscaping package.

Concrete pool costs

From $70,000 NZD or $65,000 USD, including installation.

What will it cost to keep it clean?

Sanitizers are essential for preventing the growth of dangerous bacteria, which could lead to infections. Bacteria are controlled through use of a sanitisation technique, coupled with a filter that removes the dead bacteria. Chlorine is the most widely used pool sanitiser, and is available in a number of forms. Granular chlorine is cheap and easy to use; liquid chlorine is also cheap, and is less likely to cloud the pool granular chlorine. Both need to be applied manually.

Saltwater chlorination uses a device to transform salt into chlorine, which then cleans your pool. Although these are expensive initially, you will save money in the long-term and the devices automatically balance the pool’s pH levels.

Concerns about the health consequences of chlorine have led to the development of alternative pool treatments, such as ozone technology. Ozone is a powerful steriliser that destroys bacteria. Ozone generators for pools produce ozone in the water, and keep the water clean and safe; they also balance the pH level of the pool.

How long does it take to install a swimming pool?

Every project is different, and the time of your swimming pool installation will depend on a range of factors including site access, the size of the pool and the specifications of your design. For some homeowners, a basic installation might be possible within a matter of weeks. For others, such as Whangaparaoa Peninsula homeowners John and Jenny, the planning stage alone can take 12 months.

"We decided to turn the road entrance side of (our) property into a subtropical forest lagoon", tells John. "The section from the road was banked and sloping. We never used the space. After 30 six-wheeler truckloads of earth and clay were removed we had the stage for the rock waterfall, pond, cabana, decking and ultimately the planting."

While a large project, the couple say it was well worth it.

"Whenever we want to go to Fiji we just take six steps out our front door. We actually prefer this space to the sea views from the front of our home these days and are delighted with the result."

View John and Jenny's lagoon-style swimming pool. 

Ask your Landscaping Designer about Swimming Pool fence regulations in your area.

Obviously, prices can soar much higher depending on materials, landscaping and other costs. It's best to arrange a briefing meeting with a Zones Landscaping Specialist to get a clearer picture of what it would cost to install a swimming pool in your garden.

Get in touch if you would like to discuss your swimming pool installation project

If you would like to discuss options and ideas for your outdoor landscaping project, please use the enquiry form on this page to provide us with your contact details. We will get in touch with you at a time that suits you to discuss your landscaping project. If you would like to provide us with more information about your project, we have a more comprehensive enquiry form on our "Get in touch" page too.

*Costs are rough estimates and are subject to change. For a fixed-quote accurate to your specific project, please consult your local Zones landscaping specialist. All Zones franchises are independently owned and operated.