Summer in New Zealand means BBQs, jandals, and long afternoons by the pool. If your place ends up being the go-to for family gatherings, you’ll want more than just sausages on the grill and a chilly bin full of L&P — you’ll want some good pool games to keep everyone happy. Whether you’re entertaining toddlers or trying to drag teenagers off their phones, having a few tried-and-true pool games up your sleeve can really lift the vibes. So, let’s get into it.

Marco Polo — Still Worth It

Look, it’s an oldie, but it’s still a goodie. You don’t need any gear, which is great because who wants to be chasing floating bits and pieces every five minutes? Just set the basic rules: one person closes their eyes and yells “Marco,” the rest reply “Polo,” and the chaser tries to find them with ears alone. It’s like hide and seek, but splashier. Kids love it, and if you’ve got a mix of ages, even the adults can join in for a laugh. Just keep it fair — no underwater sneak attacks.

Pool Noodle Jousting — Crowd Pleaser

All you need are two pool noodles and inflatable rings or floaties — anything that lets two people face off without sinking instantly. Let them “joust” with the noodles while everyone watches and cheers. First one knocked off loses. It’s kind of like backyard gladiators but wetter. You can grab decent noodles at The Warehouse or Bunnings – usually cheap and often in multi-packs.

Note: Keep the little ones out while this is going on — someone always gets a bit too enthusiastic.

Treasure Hunt Games — Great for Younger Kids

If you’ve got smaller kids swimming around, throw a handful of dive toys into the pool and challenge them to collect them. You can get themed sets — say, pirate coins or colourful rings — from local stores like Torpedo7 or even on Trade Me. Lay down rules like “only one item at a time” to keep it fair. Or split them into teams. It’s like an underwater Easter egg hunt. Bonus? Gets them practising diving and using goggles properly.

Pool Volleyball — For Bigger Groups

This one gets competitive quick. You’ll need a net that stretches across your pool and an inflatable beach ball or volleyball. Set up two sides, mix up the teams, and keep score if you’re that kind of family. Places like Rebel Sport sometimes stock floating sets, or you can DIY it with a broomstick, a few weights, and some rope if you’re handy. It’s a good go-to because it turns into a spectator sport too — people tend to get involved once they see the action.

Noodle Races — Easy and Ridiculously Fun

Everyone grabs a pool noodle and rides it like a horse from one end of the pool to the other. You can allow paddling or just make it about balance. Best for shallow ends or for older kids who can stay on top of a noodle without tipping. Think of it like bumper boats, only with more falling off and laughing. You don’t need much gear, and anyone can give it a go.

Ping Pong Ball Madness — Laughs Guaranteed

Here’s a silly one — grab a stack of ping pong balls, number them, or draw stars on a few, and toss them all into the pool. Everyone jumps in and grabs as many as they can. Those with the most marked balls win a prize (or just bragging rights). Kids love it, but adults quickly get into it too. Just be warned — balls will try to get into your skimmer box, so maybe pop a net in there to block it. Mitre 10 or your local pool supply store should have those net covers.

Floating Card Games — Chill Time Between Chaos

Every family has the group that wants fun and the crowd that just wants to chill. Why not set up a floating card table for those less keen on splashing about? You can pick up waterproof cards (yep, they exist — places like Outdoor Action stock them) and let people play Snap, Go Fish, or Uno while bobbing around. Add floating drink holders, and you’re set.

Water Basketball — Good for Teens (and Dads Who Think They’re Still 25)

Collapsed on a poolside lounger? Pull out a floating basketball hoop and give the older crew something to focus on. Rebel Sport or PB Tech sometimes run summer deals on these kind of blow-up sports sets. You can even make up shooting challenges or one-on-one tournament rounds. Loser does the next sausage run.

One Last Bit — Keep It Safe

No matter the game, make sure someone’s keeping watch — especially if there’s little kids or anyone who’s not a confident swimmer. Floaties are fine, but an adult within reach is way better. New Zealand Water Safety has a heap of good info if you want to brush up on pool safety stuff (have a look at watersafety.org.nz).

Anyway, you don’t need to spend big to make these games work — most of them rely on stuff you probably have already shoved in the shed or garage. Just mix things around depending on who’s turning up, set a few rules, and you’ll have the kind of pool party that people actually remember. And hey, even if it rains, half these games work in the drizzle too — it’s just part of a Kiwi summer, right?