If you’ve got a pool in your backyard here in NZ, chances are you’ve thought about using it after the sun goes down. But swimming in the dark? Yeah nah—not safe, not practical, and not exactly inviting either. This is where pool lights come in. They’re not just for vibe either—they’re about safety, style, and making the most out of your pool all year round.

So, here’s what matters…

Why Bother With Pool Lights?

First off, safety. You don’t want anyone tripping into the pool or misjudging the depth because they couldn’t see properly. Having good lighting makes evening dips safer for everyone—especially if you’ve got kids or mates over for a BBQ.

Then there’s the look. Pool lights can turn your yard from basic to brilliant. Think of it like fairy lights for your pool. The right lighting makes everything feel a bit more luxe, like a resort. And let’s be honest, it’s just nice to look at—from inside the house even.

What Kinds of Pool Lights Are Out There?

You’ve got a few main types to pick from:

1. LED Lights – These are your go-to these days. Super efficient, long-lasting, and they give a really clear, bright light. A lot of them even come with colour options and remote controls. It’s kind of like smart lighting for your water. Bunnings NZ usually has a decent range—check out their Marquee or Aquasafe series for affordable LEDs.

2. Halogen Lights – These used to be standard back in the day, but they chew through power and don’t last as long. They throw a warm glow though. If you’ve already got these installed, it might be worth switching over to LED when they blow.

3. Solar Pool Lights – Good for above-ground or portable pools, or if you want something easy without calling in an electrician. Stores like Mitre 10 and Trade Tested sometimes have solar options that float or sit along the edge of the pool.

4. Fibre Optic – Not as common anymore, mainly because they’re pricey and not nearly as bright as LEDs. Cool to look at, but not the most practical.

Where Do You Install Them?

This depends on the effect you’re after. Think of it like lighting up your drive versus lighting up your garden—you want to highlight different things.

• In-Pool: These go straight into the pool walls and light up the inside. Helps people see where they’re swimming.

• Pool Perimeter: Lights around the edge make it easier to walk safely and add a chilled effect.

• Landscaping & Pathway: Don’t forget walkways and outdoor areas. There’s no point in lighting the pool if people can’t even see how to get there.

The team at Spa World New Zealand has some great guides online about pool and spa lighting placement if you want extra info. Plus, their stores in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch have staff who actually know their stuff.

Should You DIY or Call the Pros?

Here’s the deal—above-ground solar lights? Easy DIY, no worries. But if you’re dealing with mains-powered LEDs or replacing old wired lights, you’re gonna need a licensed sparky. It’s not just about safety—it’s the law. Messing with pool electrics isn’t a weekend project unless you know what you’re doing.

Cost-wise, you’re looking at around $150–$500 per light installed, depending on quality and brand. The good ones last years though, so it’s a solid investment.

What Colours Work Best?

White is classic if you just want a crisp poolside look. But if you’re setting a mood—like for entertaining or just relaxing after work—getting a colour-changing LED setup is worth it. You can shift the vibe just by hitting a button. Blues are calming, purples feel a bit spa-like, and greens give a tropical feel. Totally a personal call.

How Many Lights Do You Need?

This depends on your pool size. Think of it like lighting your lounge—one weak bulb in the corner won’t cut it. For an average 8m x 4m pool, two lights on opposite sides usually do the trick. Big pools may need three or more. Some manufacturers like Aquaquip and Spa Electrics (sold at places like Pools Plus NZ or Pool and Spa 2 U) have calculators on their sites to give you a rough guide based on your pool’s shape and size.

Don’t Forget Maintenance

Lighting is one of those things you kind of set and forget—but you shouldn’t. Check your pool lights every few months when you’re doing regular pool care. Look for water inside the casings or flickering. Clean off any gunk or algae so you don’t lose brightness.

Also, here’s a tip: if one light dies and the model’s a few years old, swap them all to new LEDs so the colour and brightness match. It’s kind of like replacing car headlight bulbs—you want them even.

Final Word

Anyway, pool lights aren’t just a fancy afterthought—they’ll actually make your pool way more usable, and honestly, way better to look at. Invest in good quality ones, get them installed properly, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.

Stores like Bunnings NZ, Mitre 10, Spa World, and even local pool specialists like Pool Mates or Auckland Inground Pools usually have good gear and advice. Ask around, compare a few styles, and go for something that works for your space and how you use it.

Night swims? Sorted.