If you’re thinking about giving your backyard pool a bit of a glow-up, night LED lights are honestly one of the easiest and sharpest ways to do it. Whether it’s for safety, style, or just something to impress your mates at the next BBQ, getting the right lighting can completely change how your pool feels at night.

Here’s what matters…

Safety first — dark water is dodgy. If you’ve got kids or mates jumping in for a late swim, decent lighting lets you see exactly what’s going on under the surface. No guessing if someone’s still in the deep end, or trying to fish out a soggy floatie with a phone flashlight.

But yeah, it’s not just about being practical. A well-lit pool just looks better. It’s kind of like when you set the mood with fairy lights — but for your whole backyard. LED lights give you that clean, modern glow without being too in-your-face.

Types of LED Lights

So, here’s the main bit — choosing the right type of lights.

• Flush-mounted lights go right into the pool wall and give you a nice, slick finish. These are common in new builds or when doing a bigger reno.
• Surface-mounted lights stick out a bit more and are usually easier to install if your pool’s already up and running.

You’ve also got options for colour — from classic white to full-on colour changing ones. Think of it like switching your phone wallpaper from plain to live dynamic — same pool, but different vibe. Want to switch colours based on your playlist or the event? Easy. Some lights let you control everything from your phone or a remote.

Let’s cut to the chase: if your pool’s more than just a dip zone — if it’s where the good times happen — go for the colour-changing LEDs. Kids love them, adults think they’re cool, and they’re brilliant for parties.

What About Power + Efficiency?

LEDs are great because they don’t chew through power like the old incandescent ones. That’s extra handy here in NZ where we’re all trying to be a bit smarter with energy. Plus, they last years — often 30,000 to 50,000 hours — so once they’re in, you’re sorted for ages.

Anyway, keep in mind the brightness and angle of the light. You don’t want to blind yourself or light up the neighbour’s bedroom by accident. It’s all about subtle, even coverage.

Best Places to Get Them in NZ

Right, let’s talk local.

• Mitre 10 and Bunnings NZ both carry pool LED lighting if you’re after something off-the-shelf. Good for DIY-friendly options.
• If you’re doing a new build or a major upgrade, check out companies like Mayfair Pools (mayfairpools.co.nz) or Lagoon Pools (lagoonpools.co.nz). They’ve got gear and custom setups that go beyond the basic.
• Lighting Direct (lightingdirect.co.nz) is also handy, especially for stylish, modern outdoor lights if you’re coordinating the pool lights with other garden or deck lighting.

Oh, and make sure everything you buy is IP-rated — meaning it’s built to deal with water properly. In NZ, that’s non-negotiable. We get all sorts of weather, and the last thing you want is dodgy electrics near your water.

Installation — DIY or Call Someone?

Here’s the thing — surface-mounted LED lights can be DIY if you’re comfy with pool care and electrics. But, if in doubt, get a licensed sparkie. Water and power don’t mix, and you don’t want to get it wrong.

Think of it like installing a new stereo in your car versus rewiring the whole thing. One’s a personal project, the other’s best left to the pros.

Wrap Up

So, if the pool’s your go-to chill zone, night LED lights are a fast and affordable way to make it pop. It’s not crazy expensive, it looks slick, and it keeps swimmers safe once the sun’s gone down.

Whether you’re getting gear from your local Bunnings or calling in a specialist from somewhere like Hydraway (hydraway.co.nz) to do a full outdoor lighting job, it’s definitely one upgrade you won’t regret.

Don’t just light the pool — light the whole vibe.