Having a backyard pool is already a win, but if you really want to make the most of it, you need some fun, easy-to-set-up pool games. Whether you’ve got little kids, pre-teens, or even adults who refuse to act their age (no judgement), there’s a game for everyone.

Classic Games with a Twist

First up, let’s talk about the classics—the ones everyone knows but can be made even better with a few tweaks.

Marco Polo, for example, is always a solid choice, but if it’s getting a bit stale, try adding a rule where “Marco” can only call out New Zealand towns or landmarks (“Dunedin!”, “Rotorua!”). It keeps everyone on their toes and tests a bit of geography at the same time.

Then there’s Sharks and Minnows, which is basically tag in the pool. One person is the shark, everyone else is a minnow trying to make it from one side to the other without being tagged. To shake things up, let the shark use pool noodles as “traps” they can throw in the water to slow minnows down.

Games for Younger Kids

If you’ve got little ones, keep things simple but engaging.

Treasure Hunt is an easy win—just throw some sinkable toys or coins into the water and let the kids dive down to collect them. If you need gear, check out NZ retailers like The Warehouse or Kmart NZ for affordable dive toys.

Another great one is Ring Toss, where kids try to throw floating rings over pool noodles or sticks placed in the pool. You can find floating ring sets at Rebel Sport or even grab some cheap options at Bunnings NZ.

Games for Bigger Kids (and Competitive Adults)

If your family gets competitive, you’ll want something with a bit more challenge.

Water Basketball and Pool Volleyball are absolute musts. You can get floating hoops and volleyball sets from Trademe or Mitre 10 if you’re feeling fancy. If not, just use a beach ball and set up a makeshift net with pool noodles.

Relay Races are another solid choice, especially if you add some funny challenges—like swimming while pushing a ball with your nose or holding a cup of water on your head. The sillier, the better.

Night-Time Pool Games

Not ready to leave the water after the sun goes down? Grab some glow-in-the-dark pool toys (you can find them at Mighty Ape) and try Glow Stick Volleyball—essentially the same as daytime pool volleyball but with glowing sticks inside the ball.

Another cool night-time game is Underwater Torch Tag. Just grab a waterproof torch (available at Hunting & Fishing NZ) and play a version of hide-and-seek underwater.

Keeping It Safe

Of course, safety always comes first. If you’re playing dive-heavy games, make sure there’s enough depth. Little kids? Keep a close eye on them, even with floaties. And if you’re playing at night, make sure the pool area is well-lit.

Anyway, that’s the list—plenty of ideas to keep the whole family entertained. Whether you’re keeping it classic with Marco Polo, stepping up the competition with pool volleyball, or turning your backyard into a nighttime glow party, there’s no excuse for a boring swim. So, grab your togs, set up the games, and make this summer one to remember!