The Mount Hot Pools is back open after its two-month closure for planned renewals and maintenance and has a busy summer holiday season planned.

This popular facility under Mauao, surrounded by golden beaches, cafes, native bush and walking tracks, has never looked better, says a statement from Bay Venues.

All the hot pools have been re-tiled and improvements have been made to the reception area, the car park management system and flow, and the changing rooms, which now have under-floor heating.

Important preventive maintenance work on the plant room and pool heating system has also been completed and all the guttering inside and outside the facility has been replaced.

“Our pool tiles were installed back in 1991 and they needed to be replaced. The new tiles create a deep ocean colouring under the water and give it a resort feel,” says Bay Venues Head of Aquatics Matthew Strange.

“While we were re-tiling the pools, we also took the opportunity to assess the pool tanks and remedy the pool structure underneath, as well as address any unseen issues and completely re-waterproof all pool tanks to ensure they are ready for many more years of service to our community.”

The private pools and massage rooms have also been updated.

Strange thanks the contractors and Mount Hot Pools team for their “mammoth effort” and for working tirelessly to get the project done in time for Christmas.

“We can’t wait to welcome back our community this summer, as well as all the holidaymakers and international visitors. Come and unwind under Mauao and listen to the birdsong. This is a natural escape in the heart of Mount Maunganui.”

The Soak ‘n Sounds season at the Mount Hot Pools is also underway, with local musicians performing poolside every Sunday from 7pm between now and Easter.

The live music will start early on Christmas Eve (at 4pm) and New Year’s Eve (at 3pm).

Aqua exercise classes at the Mount Hot Pools have also resumed and after a short break between Christmas and New Year, will be back in 2024.

Aquatots sessions, with pool toys available for babies and toddlers, will run throughout the holiday season and into the New Year.