Keeping Kids and Pets Safe: The Best Pool Safety Covers in NZ
If you’ve got a pool, safety has to come first—especially when you’ve got kids or pets running around. A solid pool safety cover is one of the easiest ways to keep everyone safe while keeping leaves and debris out of the water. But not all covers are equal. Some offer real protection, while others are just thin sheets that won’t stop anything from falling in. So, let’s talk about what actually works.
What Makes a Good Pool Safety Cover?
You don’t just want a flimsy cover that blows off in the wind. A proper safety cover needs to be strong enough to hold weight (just in case a child or pet accidentally steps on it) and secure enough that it won’t slip into the water. Here’s what to look for:
- Strength & Durability – Can it actually hold the weight of a person or a pet without tearing? Look for covers that can support at least 100kg.
- Secure Fastening – A good cover should anchor firmly so it won’t shift or let anyone slip under it.
- Material Quality – PVC, reinforced vinyl, or tensioned mesh covers are the best for long-term durability.
- Easy to Remove & Replace – You want something practical. If it’s a hassle, you’ll be tempted to leave it off!
The Best Types of Pool Safety Covers
Not all pool covers are safe. A standard floating cover or solar cover won’t stop a child or pet from falling in. These are the ones worth considering:
1. Rigid or Solid Covers
Think of this like putting a lid on your pool. These covers are made from strong materials like reinforced PVC or fibreglass slats. They’re built to hold weight and prevent access entirely. Some even have automatic rolling systems that make them easy to use.
Where to buy:
- Pool Covers & Rollers NZ – They have some of the best automatic solid pool covers in the country.
- The Cover Guy NZ – Good for heavy-duty covers and spa covers that add extra security.
2. Tensioned Mesh Safety Covers
This type stretches over the pool and anchors at multiple points, kind of like a trampoline but with less give. The gaps allow rainwater through, so you don’t get pooling on top, but they’re strong enough to prevent a child or pet from falling in.
Where to check:
- Elite Pool Covers NZ – Provides strong mesh safety covers that can handle NZ weather.
3. Automatic Pool Covers
If you want full safety combined with convenience, this is the way to go. These covers operate at the push of a button, rolling out to completely seal off the pool. They tend to be the most expensive option but offer the best security.
Who has them?
- AG Pool Covers NZ – Specialises in automatic pool covers.
What About DIY Pool Covers?
You might be tempted to DIY a solution, but be careful here. A basic tarp with weights won’t cut it—it needs to be properly anchored and built to handle weight. If you’re handy, you could look into custom mesh covers or roller covers, but for real safety, it’s usually better to go with a professionally made cover.
Extra Safety Tips
A pool cover is great, but don’t rely on it alone. Combine it with these safety measures:
✅ Pool Fencing – NZ law requires fencing around pools deeper than 400mm. Make sure yours meets the standards.
✅ Alarms & Security Gates – Consider adding a pool gate alarm to alert you if someone enters the area.
✅ Teach Kids About Water Safety – Even with a cover, kids should know not to play near the pool unsupervised.
Check out Safekids Aotearoa for more water safety advice.
Final Thoughts
If your pool doesn’t have a safety cover yet, it’s time to invest in one. A high-quality cover isn’t just about keeping leaves out—it could literally save a life. Whether you go for a solid cover, tensioned mesh, or an automatic system, making sure your pool is safe for kids and pets should be non-negotiable.
Need one? Check out NZ sites like Pool Covers & Rollers NZ, Elite Pool Covers, or AG Pool Covers to find an option that works with your pool. Stay safe, and enjoy your summer without the worry!
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