Thinking About a Pool Enclosure? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve got a pool in New Zealand, you probably already know that our weather can be all over the place. One minute it’s sunny and perfect, and the next, the wind’s throwing leaves into your pool like it’s got something to prove. That’s where a pool enclosure comes in—it keeps things clean, warm, and usable year-round. But there’s a bit to think about before you take the plunge.

What Exactly Is a Pool Enclosure?

Think of it like a greenhouse for your pool. It’s a structure—either fixed or retractable—that covers the entire pool, keeping out debris, maintaining heat, and giving you a controlled swimming space no matter the weather. Some enclosures are fully enclosed, while others are more like high-end pergolas with sliding panels.

Why Bother With One?

Alright, let’s cut to the chase—why would you want one?

1. Keeps the Water Warm – This is a big one. An enclosure traps heat, meaning your pool stays warmer for longer without cranking up the heater. Less power usage = lower bills.
2. Stops the Mess – No more fishing out leaves, bugs, or the occasional bird who miscalculated their landing. Less cleaning means more swimming.
3. Extends Your Pool Season – Instead of using your pool just for summer, you get extra months (or even year-round swimming if you go full enclosure).
4. Better Safety – Some enclosures can be locked, which is a great added layer of security if you’ve got kids or pets running around.
5. Cuts Down on Chemical Costs – Less junk in the pool means fewer chemicals needed to keep the water balanced.

What Are Your Options?

Now, depending on your budget and how fancy you want to get, there are a few different styles:

• Retractable Enclosures – These slide open so you can swim in the open air when the weather’s good. Kind of like having the best of both worlds.
• Fixed Enclosures – Fully covered, all the time. Good if you want complete protection and year-round swimming.
• Telescopic Enclosures – These look like a series of overlapping sections that can extend or retract as needed.
• Low vs. High Enclosures – Low ones are more for keeping the water warm and clean, while high ones let you walk around freely inside like a mini indoor pool.

If you want to see some real-life examples, check out Futurewood NZ for composite materials often used in pool enclosures, or Archgola which specialises in covered outdoor spaces (they might not do full enclosures but have great covered solutions).

Do You Need Council Approval?

Yep, in most cases, you’ll at least need to check with your local council. Anything that’s a permanent structure or changes the safety aspect of your pool might need consent. Start by checking with your local council’s website—Auckland Council is a good place to start if you’re in the Auckland region.

What’s It Going to Cost?

Let’s be real—pool enclosures aren’t cheap. A full high enclosure can start from $10,000 and go up to $50,000+, depending on size and materials. Lower or partially retractable ones will be on the cheaper side. But think about it as an investment: less cleaning, lower heating costs, and more months of use every year.

Maintenance-wise, they’re pretty low effort—just the occasional clean, especially if you go for one with glass or polycarbonate panels that collect dust and rain spots.

Is It Worth It?

If you use your pool a lot and hate dealing with cold water and constant cleaning, an enclosure makes things way easier. Plus, in places like Wellington or Christchurch where wind and chilly temps can limit swimming time, it’s a game-changer.

If you’re keen to explore options, check with local suppliers like Archgola or visit Mitre 10 for materials if you’re thinking of a DIY approach.

Got a pool enclosure? Let me know how it’s working for you! Otherwise, if you’re still on the fence, hopefully, this breakdown helped clear things up. Happy swimming!