NZCT Help Marton Swim Centre Reopen to the Public with $75K Grant!
New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) has awarded a $75k NZCT grant to the Rangitīkei District Council for the Marton Swim Centre remediation project, supporting repairs that will allow the facility to reopen.
Andy Watson, Rangitīkei Mayor says, “This is fantastic news for our team, and I commend the efforts that our staff have done to make such a strong application to NZCT. This money is a huge help for the Marton Swim Centre project and getting the facility open again for 2027. I know that many of our residents can’t wait to go swimming again.”
The Marton Swim Centre, home to the only Olympic-sized indoor pool in the central North Island, was forced to close in August 2024 after a structural beam failure caused a partial roof collapse. Communications Advisor Ben Caldwell says, “The facility was forced to close after structural issues, which meant our community lost access to an important community asset for the past two swim seasons.”
The swim centre is operated by Community Leisure Management (CLM) and it plays a key role in supporting local programmes, including SwimMagic and other development initiatives focused on health, fitness, and wellbeing. Its closure disrupted these services and reduced access to swimming for the wider community.
Lyden Noakes, Community Leisure Management’s Aquatic Manager says, “This support will have a meaningful impact on our community by helping us provide a safe, warm, and welcoming aquatic space for everyone. From our parents and babies enjoying their first water experiences in baby classes, to preschool and school-aged children learning essential swimming and water safety skills, this facility supports all stages of life. It also enables our Masters swimmers to train, our older community members to stay active through aqua aerobics and water walking, and our families to enjoy a fun and affordable day out together.”
The remediation project includes addressing structural issues and upgrading infrastructure so the facility can reopen safely, with the potential to operate throughout the year. Previously, limitations with the building’s ability to retain heat prevented year‑round use. The NZCT grant will contribute to these works, helping ensure the facility can reopen and meet long‑term community needs.
NZCT General Manager of Grants, Marketing and Communications Ben Hodges says “Facilities like this are essential for community wellbeing, giving people a place to stay active and learn important life skills. NZCT can fund this community good thanks to the fundraising partnership we share with the Club Hotel Marton via their host responsible gaming lounge.”