There’s something pretty magic about going for a dip after dark. Whether it’s a quiet float under the stars or chasing the kids around the pool with glow sticks, night swimming turns your backyard into a totally new experience.

But before you dive in, there are a few things you need to think about—especially here in NZ where safety, lighting, and weather all play a part.

Let’s cut to the chase—if you’ve got a pool, spa, or even a clean dam out the back, night swimming is totally doable. You just need to set it up right.

Start with lighting (seriously, this matters)

Good lighting is key. It’s not just about making things look flash—it’s about seeing where you’re swimming and avoiding any surprise toe stubs or worse. You’ll want both in-pool lighting and path lighting around the area.

Something like the PAL EvenGlow LED lights from Aqua Pools NZ can make a huge difference. They’re colour-changing and low wattage, so they look sharp and won’t spike your power bill. Bunnings NZ also does some decent low-voltage outdoor lights if you’re after a quick fix.

Think of it like setting up your outdoor area for a backyard BBQ—if you wouldn’t eat sausages in the dark, don’t swim in it either.

Don’t forget heating (yes, even in summer)

Let’s be honest—NZ evenings can get nippy even in December. If you’re serious about night swimming, a pool heater is a must. Heat pumps are a favourite because they’re efficient and can be used all year round.

Have a look at places like Hot Spring Spas or Pool Heat Pumps NZ—they’ve got models suited for everything from small plunge pools to full-lap setups. A properly heated pool means no one’s running out with chattering teeth two minutes after jumping in.

Safety gear = non-negotiable

Here’s what matters—if people are swimming at night, visibility drops. So, safety around the pool becomes even more important. That means fences need to be secure, gates should self-close, and floatation devices should be within reach.

New Zealand’s pool fencing regulations are pretty clear—you can check them on the NZ Building Performance website. They’ve got a solid breakdown of what’s required legally if you’re not sure.

It’s also a good idea to chuck a couple of solar-powered lights on your fence or gate so the whole perimeter is visible. Think of it like leaving a nightlight on—it’s not for looks, it’s practical.

Little extras go a long way

Okay, so once the basics are sorted, you can start thinking about the fun stuff. That’s things like waterproof Bluetooth speakers (so you can blast some Six60 or Lorde under the stars), floating LED lights (Mitre10 often has cool outdoor waterproof ones), or even pool toys that glow in the dark.

Oh, and if you want the backyard vibe to feel a bit more luxe, you could add a fire pit nearby. Nothing better than hopping out of the water and heading straight for a warm seat with a toasted marshmallow.

Plan for the season, not just the night

This is what you should do—think long-term. If you’re going to be night swimming in spring, autumn, or even winter (because honestly, some of us are up for it), you’ll need to think about wind protection too. Outdoor blinds from places like Harvey Furnishings or Shadecraft NZ can help turn your swimming area into a sheltered nook.

And while you’re at it, some solid towels and warm robes make all the difference after a late dip—it’s kind of like when you leave the beach at 6pm and just want something cosy straight away.

Anyway, give night swimming a go—it seriously adds another level to your backyard setup. Just get the foundations right, and the rest is pure enjoyment.