Swimming at Night: What You Need to Know

There’s something special about night swimming. The water feels warmer, the stars are out, and everything just seems calmer. But if you’re thinking about making evening swims a regular thing at home, there are a few things to get right—lighting, safety, and keeping the vibes just right.

Get Your Lighting Sorted

Swimming in the dark sounds romantic, but let’s be real—tripping over pool steps or slipping on wet tiles isn’t fun. You need good lighting, both in and around the pool. Here’s where to start:

• Underwater LED lights – These not only illuminate the pool but also make the water look amazing. Retailers like Bunnings NZ have a range of affordable and energy-efficient options.
• Solar pathway lights – They’re easy to install and won’t jack up your power bill. Look at stores like Mitre 10 for weather-resistant options.
• String lights or lanterns – If you want a more relaxed vibe, these can soften the lighting. Freedom Furniture often has good selections for outdoor spaces.

Stay Warm (Because NZ Nights Can Be Chilly)

Even in summer, night air cools down fast. You don’t want to cut your swim short just because you’re freezing the moment you hop out. This is what helps:

• Heated pools or spa combos – If you’ve got a pool heater, keep it going in the evening. If not, consider investing in one from Pool & Spa Warehouse.
• Outdoor gas heaters or fire pits – Warm up post-swim with a bit of heat. The Warehouse and BBQs & More have plenty of options.
• Thick towels and robes – Keep them nearby so you’re not sprinting into the house shivering.

Safety First (Because No One Wants an Accident)

Swimming at night comes with added risks, especially if you’ve got kids or guests around. Make sure these basics are covered:

• Keep the pool fence closed – It’s the law in New Zealand to have a compliant fence around your pool. Check NZ safety regulations on Building.govt.nz.
• Make sure paths aren’t slippery – Wet tiles can be a danger zone at night. Use non-slip mats or coatings from stores like Resene NZ.
• Use floating LED lights – They add visibility in the water, so no one misjudges where the deep end starts.

Keep the Bugs Away

New Zealand’s mozzies love warm nights just as much as you do. If you don’t want to spend your pool session swatting them away, here’s what helps:

• Citronella candles or torches – These keep bugs at bay and add to the atmosphere. Look for them at Briscoes.
• Bug-repellent plants – Lavender, citronella, or rosemary planted near the pool help naturally repel insects. You can find them at Palmers Garden Centre.
• Mosquito-repellent sprays – A quick spray-on before swimming can make all the difference.

Create the Right Atmosphere

Night swimming should feel like a mini escape. Once you’ve got lighting and warmth sorted, here’s how you can make it even more enjoyable:

• Waterproof Bluetooth speakers – Play soft background music or something more upbeat if you’re in a party mood. JB Hi-Fi NZ has good wireless speaker options.
• Floaties for lounging – Not just for kids—floating loungers make evening swims extra relaxing.
• Drinks by the pool – A cold bottle of sparkling water or a glass of wine (if you’re not swimming too much) can turn a simple swim into a full experience.

Final Thoughts

Night swimming at home can feel like a luxury, but it’s really just about getting the right setup. Good lighting, a bit of warmth, safety measures, and keeping the bug situation under control make all the difference. Whether you’re taking a solo dip after a long day or hosting a late-night pool session with friends, a little planning goes a long way.