If you’ve got a pool at home here in New Zealand, you already know it’s one of those things that can make summer feel next level. But if you want it to really stand out—especially at night—you’re probably looking at adding some decent lighting. That’s where LED pool lights come in. Let’s cut to the chase and break it all down simply.

What makes LED pool lights a good idea?

Here’s what matters: LED lights are brighter, last way longer, and use a lot less power than the old-school halogen ones. Think of it like swapping out those yellowy bulbs in your hallway for crisp, modern LEDs—same concept, just underwater.

Also, they don’t heat up as much either, which is safer if kids are around. And even if you’re just after a mood boost for those evening swims or BBQs by the pool, the colour-changing options can take the whole vibe up a notch.

Not all lights are created equal

So, you’re browsing online or down at Mitre 10, and you’re hit with a million options and prices. Some of them seem too cheap, right? That’s because they are. Cheap LED pool lights might look good for five minutes but can end up costing you more when they burn out or wear down with NZ’s salty coastal air. You want ones that are IP68-rated (that’s just waterproof-speak) and safe for full submersion.

This is what you should do: check out quality local stores that actually understand NZ conditions. Try Spa World NZ, or Lighting Direct—they’ve got pool-specific lights that can handle the good old Kiwi climate, whether it’s rain, salty air, or that strong sun.

Retrofitting vs new builds

If you already have a pool, you don’t need to rip it apart to add LED lights. Retrofitting is a great option. Basically, it’s like swapping out your old light bulbs for new ones—same principle, just underwater. Some LED kits are made specifically for older fittings, so they slot right in.

If you’re getting a new pool built though, definitely chat with your pool builder about the layout. Most people go with two or three lights for a medium-sized pool—you want even coverage, not just a spotlight effect in one funky corner.

Wired or wireless?

Quick heads-up: most LED pool lights are low-voltage and wired in, and you’ll usually need an electrician to install them properly. You don’t want to muck around with DIY wiring near water. There are solar lights around too, but let’s be honest—NZ’s weather doesn’t always play nice. Wired will always be more reliable if you want consistent brightness.

Think of it like this: it’s like having garden lights. Those solar ones are alright… until they die halfway through your BBQ and you’re left serving sausages in the dark.

Cool features to look out for

Here’s the fun bit. The good LED pool lights come with remote controls, or even apps now. You can switch colours, dim them, or even set them to run different scenes or fades. Some even sync to music if you’re five drinks deep and hosting a pool party.

A top pick in NZ would be the Spa Electrics range (available through NZ retailers like Paramount Pools). They’ve got colour-changers, retrofit kits, and a solid reputation down here.

How much does it all cost?

Alright, so this ain’t a warehouse bargain bin job. Expect to pay somewhere between $200 to $600 per light installed, depending on the brand, features, and whether you’re retrofitting or building new. Installation might be separate unless you’re handling it all through a pool company.

Anyway, don’t let price scare you too much—LED lights tend to last 10–15 years, easily. That’s like paying once and forgetting about replacements for a decade or more.

Final tip before you splash out

Don’t just buy lights off some random overseas website. We’ve got different voltage rules here in NZ, and warranties can get messy across borders. Stick with local dealers like Bunnings NZ, Spa World, or even your pool builder’s trusted suppliers—they’ll know what works best for Kiwi pools.

Oh, and one more thing—always ask whether the lights can be serviced or replaced individually. If something blows, you don’t want to drain the whole pool just to get to one faulty unit.

So yeah, LED pool lights? Worth it. They make a huge difference visually, they save power, and they just make your pool a thousand times more fun to use at night. Give your pool a bit of personality—and light it up the proper way.