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.
Installing a pool is a dream for many Wellington & Wairarapa homeowners, but choosing the right one is about more than just looks. Between Wellington’s coastal climate, hillside terrain, and varying backyard sizes, selecting the best fibreglass pool requires thoughtful planning.
Fibreglass pools have become increasingly popular across New Zealand thanks to their durability, low maintenance, and modern designer appeal. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the ideal fibreglass pool in Wellington, taking into account local conditions, pool sizes, colours, maintenance, costs, and the full installation process.
Why Choose a Leisure Pool fibreglass Pool?
Before we dive into the selection process, it’s worth understanding the main benefits of Leisure Pools fibreglass pools:
For Wellington & Wairarapa homeowners looking for a balance between form, function, and cost-effectiveness, Leisure Pools fibreglass pools are an excellent choice.
1. Assess Your Backyard Space and Site Conditions
Wellington & Wairarapa properties range from urban townhouses with compact gardens to sprawling hilltop & rural homes. Your available space and site access will influence the size and shape of your pool.
Things to consider:
Consult with a professional pool installer who understands the Wellington & Wairarapa landscape for site-specific recommendations.
2. Choosing the Right Size and Shape
Leisure Pools fibreglass pools come in a wide range of pre-formed shapes and sizes, from 2m plunge pools to generously sized 12m pools. The right one for you depends on your lifestyle and space.
Popular options:
Don’t forget to factor in surrounding space for paving, decking, fencing and landscaping.
3. Select Colours That Work with NZ’s Light
Choosing a pool colour isn’t just an aesthetic decision, it affects how your pool looks under different light conditions. Wellington’s skies often shift between clear blue and overcast, which impacts how your pool colour appears.
Our most popular pool colours in Wellington & Wairarapa:
Ask your installer for sample finishes and view them outdoors to get a true sense of how they’ll appear in your backyard.
4. Understand Maintenance Needs
One of the top fibreglass pool benefits is its low maintenance requirements. However, regular upkeep is still essential.
Fibreglass pool maintenance checklist:
5. Consider the Costs and Long-Term Value
Installing a pool is an investment, so it’s important to understand both the upfront costs and ongoing maintenance expenses.
On average, fibreglass pools are roughly half the price of concrete pools and don’t require costly maintenance like resurfacing that concrete pools require.
Typical fibreglass pool costs in Wellington:
While fibreglass pools may have a higher upfront cost than vinyl options, they typically require fewer repairs over time. In the long term, they offer excellent value and strong ROI when it comes time to sell your home.
6. Understand the Installation Process
One of the biggest advantages of fibreglass pools is the fast and efficient installation process. In many cases, pools can be fully installed and landscaped within 6 weeks.
General timeline:
Weather rarely influences our installation timing, we install pools in Wellington & Wairarapa all year round.
7. Look for a Designer Pool Style That Matches Your Home
Fibreglass pools today aren’t the basic blue rectangular or kidney shapes of the past. Leisure Pools offer designer fibreglass pools with features like:
Choosing a pool design that complements your home’s architecture and garden style ensures a seamless visual transition between house and backyard.
8. Factor in Wellington, Kapiti & Wairarapa’s Unique Weather
The Wellington region’s weather is famously varied depending on where you live. From Windy Wellington city to sunny Kapiti Coast and South Wairarapa, Your pool design and placement should take this into account and be tailored to your unique climate.
Tips for the Wellington climate:
Conclusion: Choose Smart, Swim Happily
Choosing the best fibreglass pool for your Wellington backyard is about finding the right balance between design, practicality, and budget while factoring in local weather and terrain.
From understanding size, colour, and shape to planning for cost and installation, a well-chosen pool will transform your outdoor living experience. Whether you’re dreaming of relaxing summer days, improving property value, or creating a hub for family fun, a Leisure Pools fibreglass pool offers beauty, function, and longevity.
Work with a trusted local pool provider who understands the Wellington lifestyle and can tailor the pool solution to your site. That way, you’ll be making a splash in no time.
Thinking about installing a pool in the Wellington, Kapiti or Wairarapa region? You're not alone. With more homeowners prioritising relaxation and outdoor entertainment, swimming pools have become a popular addition to Kiwi backyards. At NZ Pools, we specialise in making your pool installation experience smooth, transparent, and stress-free.
Whether you're a first-time pool buyer or just exploring your options, here's everything you need to know about the pool installation process in Greater Wellington —from site consultation to the final handover.
Every project begins with a one-on-one site visit from our team. This isn’t just about measuring the space. We assess everything from land slope and soil conditions to sun exposure and wind direction. We'll also talk about how you plan to use the pool, what features matter most to you, and any special requirements for your property.
Whether your backyard is flat and open or tricky and sloped, our team will provide tailored recommendations to match your site with the best pool type and layout. This is also when we start to discuss your ideal timeline and any budget expectations.
We’re known for being upfront, and we’ll explain all your options clearly. You can learn more about our company and values on our About Us page.
In New Zealand, installing a pool involves specific compliance requirements. Most pool projects require building consent, especially for in-ground installations. Some areas may also need resource consent, depending on local council zoning and land use rules.
Fencing is another critical area. New Zealand law requires all residential pools to have fencing that complies with the Building Code and the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act. We handle this entire process for you—from submitting the permit applications to coordinating with your local Kapiti or Wairarapa council.
Getting the paperwork right from the beginning saves time and avoids delays later. Our team is experienced with local council processes and can anticipate what will be required for your specific location.
One of the biggest concerns for first-time pool buyers is budget. We get it. Pool projects are a significant investment, and you want to know where your money is going.
That’s why we provide detailed, fully itemised quotes after your site consultation. Your quote will cover every aspect of the job, from excavation and pool delivery to plumbing, electrical work, and even permits. We don’t believe in hidden fees or vague line items. Should your project require a crane for pool delivery, we’ll take care of organising and pricing the lift separately for you.. If you want upgraded features like lighting or heating, we’ll outline those costs too.
When you work with NZ Pools, you’ll always know exactly what to expect. No surprises halfway through the job.
Once the permits are approved and the design finalised, the real work begins. Excavation is the first major step in the physical installation process. Using specialised equipment, the excavation contractor with our team on hand carefully digs the site to the required depth and shape.
If you're choosing a fibreglass pool shell, we may need to use a crane to deliver and position the shell, especially for homes with limited access. Our team handles the entire logistics process, ensuring that your pool arrives safely and is positioned with precision.
This stage can be exciting, it's when the project begins to take shape, and you can start to visualise your future pool.
With the systems installed, we move on to backfilling around the pool shell. This is a critical structural step, as it stabilises the pool and prevents future shifting. Once the stabilised backfilling is complete, we pour a concrete bond beam with reinforced steel to lock the pool into place. .
At this point, your pool area really starts to look like a finished product. We take care to leave the site tidy and ready for final touches from your builder or landscaper.
While the pool shell is being installed, , our team begins installing the essential plumbing and pump shed equipment. This includes setting up the filtration system, water inlets and returns, and any optional systems such as underwater lighting or pool heating.
We use high-quality, energy-efficient equipment that complies with all NZ standards. This ensures your pool runs reliably, with lower maintenance costs in the long run. You can view some of the equipment options we offer on our Products page.
Once the pool equipment is installed, we conduct a full handover. This includes a walkthrough of how everything works, water care advice, and a handover kit with manuals and maintenance guidelines. You’ll receive an introduction to the pool service company we partner with. We’ll also answer any final questions and let you know how to reach us if you need post-installation support.
At the end of the landscaping stage, a final inspection by your local council is required. We can coordinate this process and ensure that everything from fencing to electrical work is fully compliant.
The full pool installation process in Wellington, Kapiti & Wairarapa usually takes around 4 to 6 weeks, depending on weather conditions and how quickly permits are processed. We keep you informed every step of the way so you always know what’s happening next.
Do I need council approval for a pool in Wellington, Kapiti or Wairarapa?
Yes, most pool projects require building consent, and fencing must meet national safety standards. NZ Pools manages this process for you.
What’s the typical cost of installing a pool in Kapiti?
Our fibreglass pool packages typically start from $50,000–$80,000, depending on site complexity and optional upgrades. We provide fixed quotes with full transparency.
How do I know if my site is suitable?
Our initial site consultation assesses soil, access, drainage, and sun exposure to recommend the best approach. Even challenging sites can often be accommodated with the right equipment.
Can I customise the pool with lighting, heating, or automation?
Absolutely. We offer a range of extras such as LED lighting, solar or electric heating, and smart pool automation systems.
Installing a pool is a rewarding investment that adds value to your home and quality to your lifestyle, but it’s not something you want to leave to chance. At NZ Pools, we pride ourselves on a clear, step-by-step installation process, honest pricing, and professional project management from start to finish.
If you're a first-time pool buyer in the Wellington, Kapiti or Wairarapa region, our team is here to walk you through it with confidence. Let us turn your backyard into a personal retreat—built to last, and designed just for you.
Ready to take the first step? Contact NZ Pools today to schedule your free consultation.
Swimming pools provide an abundance of good times and lasting memories, and the pool purchase process itself can be fun and memorable. While characteristics like features and pool design are important, you also want to be sure you buy a pool that provides a lifetime of worry-free ownership. At Leisure Pools, we stand behind the quality and construction of our pools and offer a lifetime structural warranty and lifetime structural osmosis warranty. Learn more about why these warranties make our pools not just pools…but Super Pools.
We can produce our pools with our Composite Armour technology–a revolutionary new technology in composite fibreglass swimming pool manufacturing. This patented technology is designed to significantly reinforce the composite swimming pool with a strategically integrated laminate that consists of a blend of DuPont™ Kevlar®, Carbon Fiber and Basalt Fiber. We call it our Core of Strength. By using Composite Armour™ in the pool shell laminate, Leisure Pools has been able to achieve tremendous improvement in flexural and tensile strength compared with normally constructed fiberglass pools. Leisure Pools’ patented Composite Armour™ is available for the entire Leisure Pools range of swimming pools.
Testing shows that a Leisure Pools Composite Armour™ Full Vinyl Ester Resin Swimming Pool is 111% stronger than a standard fibreglass swimming pool.
Leisure Pools manufactures each composite fibreglass swimming pool using Corrosive Resistant Vinyl Ester Resin for each layer of the swimming pool construction. As a result of using Corrosive Resistant Vinyl Ester Resin for each layer of the swimming pool, Leisure Pools is able to offer a Lifetime Structural Warranty and Lifetime Structural Osmosis Warranty, making it the best available Warranty on the market today.
By way of background, standard fibreglass pools are made up of a number of layers being:
1. Gelcoat Colour Layer
2. Corrosive Resistant Vinyl Ester Resin with Fiberglass Layer
3. Structural Polyester Resin with Fiberglass Layer
4. Polyester Resin Finishing Layer
One of the key layers that has been introduced into fibreglass construction over the last 20 years has been the use of a Corrosive Resistant Vinyl Ester Layer. Vinyl Ester Resin is a high performance resin that provides improved strength properties and inhibits water penetration into the laminate, a process commonly referred to as Osmosis.
What is Osmosis? This image shows how permeating water becomes trapped under the pool surface creating blisters that can burst.
Standard fibreglass pool manufacturers only use Vinyl Ester Resin in one layer of the swimming pool as Vinyl Ester Resin is generally double the cost of a Polyester Resin, which is a cheaper resin used to provide bulk to the swimming pool. Unfortunately, even with this one layer of Vinyl Ester Resin, Osmosis has still on occasion appeared and swimming pools have failed using this standard manufacturing method. This may be because manufacturers have attempted to use as little Vinyl Ester Resin as possible.
A swimming pool is a large investment, so in order to eliminate the risk of failure, Leisure Pools does not take any short cuts and has a patent pending that will sanction Leisure Pools as the only company able to offer a composite fibreglass swimming pool with a full Vinyl Ester Resin Construction.
If that seemed like a lot of jargon, here is the main point for pool owners: When you purchase a Leisure Pools swimming pool, you can rest assured that your swimming pool is the super hero of swimming pools. You’ll have the best warranty available, and a swimming pool with superb strength that will last a lifetime. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the process of Osmosis that commonly affects fiberglass pools.
You can start the process of pool ownership today and learn more about why our pools are the Super Pools. Contact NZ Pools Ltd on 0800 697665 or visit https://nzpools.co.nz/pools/fibreglass-pools/ and Get Swimming in Quality and Style.
As you’re probably learning, there are many different types of pools. Here at NZ Pools Ltd the fibreglass pools we love and supply are Leisure Pools. These are not just “fibreglass” pools, but much more.
By using 100% Full Vinyl Ester Resin throughout the build process, a Leisure Pool is kept safe, secure and free of damage, allowing a LIFETIME STRUCTURAL AND OSMOSIS WARRANTY ON ALL LEISURE POOLS.
Esters in the resin of a fibreglass pool are susceptible to breaking down, allowing water to penetrate through. Bubbles of trapped water and pressure continue to grow in-between structural layers of the pool shell.
Leisure Pools understands the importance of resin quality and uses 100% FULL VINYL ESTER RESIN throughout the build process. This means water cannot penetrate through any layer of the pool shell and compromise the structural integrity of the pool shell. This is how Leisure Pools is able to offer our Lifetime Structural Osmosis Warranty.
The primary ingredient in any fibreglass pool is resin. There are two different types of resin used today in fibreglass pool construction. POLY ESTER RESIN is the cheaper, far less durable option for fibreglass pool construction. The high ester content of Poly Ester Resin creates a swimming pool that is vulnerable to Osmosis.
To save on cost, most swimming pool manufacturers use primarily Poly Ester Resin, applying, at most, one single layer of Vinyl Ester Resin. VINYL ESTER RESIN is a high performance, corrosive resistant resin that prevents water penetration while also improving strength properties of the shell.
Leisure Pools uses only Vinyl Ester Resin in the construction of our Composite Armour pools, comprised of 6 total layers of cutting edge quality.
Vinyl Ester Resin v Polyester Resin
Leisure Pools has a patent pending to be the only composite fibreglass
swimming pool manufacturer to use Vinyl Ester Resin for each layer after the gelcoat
colour layer.
Standard fibreglass swimming pool manufacturers may use one layer of Vinyl Ester
Resin and then multiple layers of cheaper polyester resin in order to reduce overall
build costs.So what are the differences between Vinyl Ester Resin compared to a Polyester
Resin:
| Vinyl Ester Resin | Polyester Resin |
|---|---|
| High quality expensive resin | Cheapest resin available |
| High corrosion resistance | Poor corrosion resistance |
| High strength properties | Poor strength properties |
| High resistance to micro fracturing | Poor resistance to micro fracturing |
| High resistance to shrinkage | Poor resistance to shrinkage |
There are numerous technical websites that will go into detail regarding the
respective resin and given the investment of a swimming pool it is worth
spending 5-10 minutes to do your own research.
This short video gives a great insight into why quality is all important in fibreglass construction.
So in summary, if you are looking at getting a pool we would advise:
Most people come to NZ Pools with a dream pool in mind.
Maybe it's a unique design, something that will set it apart from the rest. It could incorporate a spa pool, outside fireplace, a pool house and plenty of room to entertain. We can incorporate all these ideas and make suggestions.
We are committed to making your dream come true. But to make sure this is still your dream pool in 10 or 20 years - first we need to hear all your plans & ideas.
How are you planning on using the pool, who is going to use it, what do you hope to get out of your investment?
Maybe your hoping to get some exercise, keep the teenage kids at home, entertain the grand children, party on the weekends with friends and family - the more detail you can give us, the better we can design the pool and outdoor area that will be ready for anything you have planned now and in the future.
Together we are laying the foundations for something special. Here are just a few things to consider as you make your list:
As you can see, there are as many options as you have ideas. And if you bring your list to our consultation, we can work together in finding the right blend to make your pool epic!
Let's talk soon.
Swimming pools are a wonderful addition to your home, creating a great way to spend quality time together as a family and creating life long memories.
Here are 5 ways design your amazing space -
1. Position of the pool. You should keep in mind the following points while deciding on a position for your pool
2. Design of your pool. The key to designing the perfect pool is to make it feel like part of your home. Look at the architecture and replicate this in your pool area, using similar or complimentary products and materials.
When it comes to size and shape, think about the purpose of your pool carefully, make a detailed list of everything you hope to get out of your pool now and in the future - go through this with your pool builder/designer.
To extend your pool season (especially in Wellington, Wairarapa & Kapiti) you will want include pool heating. This can be a gas heater, electric heat pump, solar (roof or inground) or a combination of these. We use our pool 5 months of the year - Labour Weekend to Easter.
3. Surrounding of the pool. You can fit loungers, tables & chairs within the pool fence area to add function and style.
Incorporate low gardens inside your pool fencing, planting inside your pool area softens the area and looks fantastic.
Glass fencing is classy but can be expensive. If you love the look of glass but want to save money, it's a good idea to use glass fencing between the house and pool but use more affordable pool fencing on the less visible sides. Consider a solid fence for privacy or wind shelter.
The current trend is large tiling and paving, we often incorporate coloured concrete around the pool area and scribe to look like large paving stones. Make sure a non-slip sealer is used around the wet areas.
4. Pool equipment and accessories.
Pool equipment - a well set up pool is a pleasure to own. We use a selection of tried and tested quality pool equipment to automate your pool, effortlessly keeping it in top shape. We carefully chose the best value pumps, filters and sanitation to keep your pool sparkling clean.
Pool accessories make your pool experience more enjoyable and full of fun. These can include slides, steps and ladders, LED pool lighting, bubblers, pool floats and games.
5. Choosing the right swimming pool builder. The toughest part of the process can be choosing the right pool builder, so make sure you do your homework before you start.
We know that making the decision to get a pool isn’t one to be taken lightly. It’s a fantastic investment where you will spend countless hours with your family and friends, celebrating and creating lifelong treasured memories. That’s why your pool construction partner must be committed to providing you with a sensational result.
We will take care of you from the first time you contact us right through to the magical moment when you first jump into your new dream pool.
