Adding a pool to your backyard is one of the most exciting decisions a New Zealand homeowner can make. But when it comes to choosing the right type, many Kiwis find themselves torn between two leading options: fibreglass vs concrete pools in NZ. Each pool type offers distinct advantages—and understanding these differences can help you make a confident investment that aligns with your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals.
In this blog, we’ll compare fibreglass and concrete pools based on cost, installation time, maintenance, styles, lifespan, and impact on NZ home value—helping you decide which is better suited for your needs.
1. Installation Time: How Soon Can You Swim?
Fibreglass Pools:
Fibreglass pools are pre-moulded shells that arrive at your property ready to install. In most cases, installation takes around 1 week, depending on site access and landscaping needs.
Concrete Pools:
Concrete pools are custom-built onsite, which allows for greater design flexibility. However, this process can take 2 months or longer due to curing time, weather delays, and complex engineering.
Verdict:
If speed is your priority, say you want to swim by summer, fibreglass pools offer a much quicker turnaround for Kiwi homeowners.
2. Cost Comparison: What Fits Your Budget?
Fibreglass Pools:
In New Zealand, the average cost of a fibreglass pool starts at around $50,0000–$80,000, including basic installation. Add-ons like automated equipment, decking, fencing, or heating will increase the overall price.
Concrete Pools:
Concrete pools are typically around twice the price of fibreglass pools , due to their labour-intensive build and customisation options. The cost can quickly escalate with more complex shapes and finishes.
Verdict:
Fibreglass pools are generally more cost-effective, making them ideal for budget-conscious families looking to maximise value without compromising on quality.
3. Maintenance: How Much Work Is Involved?
Fibreglass Pools:
One of the key benefits of fibreglass pools is their low-maintenance surface. The smooth, gel-coated interior is non-porous resists algae growth and requires fewer chemicals to keep clean.
Concrete Pools:
Concrete plaster has tiny pores and microscopic cracks where dirt, algae, and calcium can settle and stick.This can harbour bacteria or algae, requiring more frequent scrubbing, chemical balancing, and occasional resurfacing (every 10–15 years).
Verdict:
Fibreglass pools win when it comes to ongoing maintenance, saving you time and reducing long-term care costs.
4. Style & Design Options: Which Looks Better?
Fibreglass Pools:
While modern fibreglass pools come in a wide variety of sizes and styles, they are limited to pre-moulded shapes. This means you can’t fully customise the shape or depth beyond what the manufacturer offers.
Concrete Pools:
The design flexibility of concrete is unmatched. Want a pool shaped like a teardrop? Or a built-in spa area with a custom depth? Concrete allows for complete customisation to suit your section and design vision.
Verdict:
If you have a very specific aesthetic in mind, concrete pools offer total creative freedom. But for most NZ backyards, fibreglass options are more than sufficient—and stylish too.
5. Lifespan and Durability
Fibreglass Pools:
Fibreglass pools are known for their durability and resistance to NZ’s varied climates. Leisure Pools offer a Lifetime Structural and Osmosis Warranty, and the non-porous surface reduces wear and tear over time.
Concrete Pools:
Concrete pools can last a lifetime with proper maintenance. However, they may require resurfacing every 10–15 years, which is a significant cost and time consideration.
Verdict:
Concrete pools and quality fibreglass pools have similar potential lifespans, but fibreglass requires less ongoing upkeep. Choose based on how long you plan to stay in your home and whether you want to minimise long-term costs.
6. Impact on NZ Home Value
Both pool types can positively influence your property’s value, especially in warmer regions of New Zealand like Kapiti & the Wairarapa, where backyard pools are highly desirable.
However, there are some key differences:
Verdict:
Either option can enhance your home’s resale value—but be sure your choice complements your property’s location, size, and target market.
7. Environmental Impact
Today’s Kiwi homeowners are increasingly eco-conscious. So how do the two pool types compare?
Fibreglass Pools:
These pools use fewer chemicals making them a more sustainable option over the long term.
Concrete Pools:
Concrete construction has a larger carbon footprint due to cement usage and the energy-intensive building process.
Verdict:
Fibreglass pools are more environmentally friendly, making them a smart choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
Summary: Pros and Cons
| Feature | Fibreglass Pools | Concrete Pools |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Time | 1 week | 2–4+ months |
| Cost | Lower initial cost | Higher initial cost |
| Maintenance | Low | High |
| Customisation | Limited | Fully customisable |
| Lifespan | 50+0+ years with low upkeep | Lifetime with resurfacing |
| NZ Home Value Impact | High | High |
| Eco Impact | Lower | Higher |
Final Thoughts: Which Pool Type Is Right for You?
When comparing fibreglass vs concrete pools in NZ, the right choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and design goals.
For most New Zealand homeowners, especially those focused on quick installation, cost-effectiveness, and ease of care, fibreglass pools offer the ideal balance of quality and convenience. But if you’re after a unique, luxury backyard feature and don’t mind the wait, a custom concrete pool could be worth the investment.
Whatever your choice, be sure to work with a reputable NZ pool installer who understands local terrain, climate, and council requirements. With the right planning and design, your new pool will be a long-lasting asset to your home and lifestyle.
