Tepid Baths
Why go
A stunning piece of Auckland's heritage that you can actually swim in. The Tepid Baths opened in December 1914 as a grand Edwardian bathhouse on Customs Street West, and after a $15.8 million restoration that wrapped in 2012, it's now one of the most beautiful public pools in New Zealand. Originally a saltwater bathhouse (the pools went fresh in 1974, mainly for maintenance reasons), it was lovingly restored with heritage details intact — the 1950s neon sign back on the chimney stack, original ceiling panels recreated, poolside cabana doors matching the 1914 design. High ceilings, glass flooring with glimpses of the gym above, and a clean, calm, beautifully maintained space. A genuinely lovely place to swim in the middle of the CBD.
What to expect
Two main pools. The lane pool is 25m, two to seven lanes, kept at 27°C, with hoist access. The learners' pool is 15m, four lanes, kept at a warmer 32°C, with ramp access — typically split into a quieter leisure lane and a larger play lane. The play lane has a generous collection of foam floats and pool toys for kids (and adults) to use, including a ride-on seal and large doughnut rings.
Beyond the pools, the wellness side is properly considered — a spa pool at 39°C (wristband from reception required), plus a sauna and a steam room. Private changing cubicles all around the pools, plus communal female and male changing rooms. Lockers and cubbies poolside as well as in the changing rooms — bring a padlock and use them for free, or hire one at reception for around $3.
