History
Swimming facilities are important assets for the Waihōpai Invercargill and Southland community, and have been for a long time. They’ve contributed to the strong swimming culture that continues today. Take a look at the history of swimming in our region and the origins of Splash Palace.
Pre 1927
As early as 1837, a ‘bathing club’ for Invercargill was proposed, but until then, swimming took place in the Invercargill Estuary, with competitions held in the Waihōpai River and Bluff Harbour.
1927 - Conon Street Pool opened 1 December
This facility played a key role in the development of competitive swimming in Southland.
1928 - Swimming Southland Inc. established
This Regional Sporting Organisation was established to lead and support the growth of swimming in Southland - whether that was foundational skills or high-performance swimmers.
1970 - The Coldstream Pool opened 4 March
Also known as the Queens Park Pool, this provided a modern indoor swimming facility for the community. It was demolished in 1999, and the site was returned to Southland Boys’ High School.
1997 - Splash Palace opened and Conon Street Pool closed
The opening of Splash Palace was quite the event, complete with pool party, live Lotto draw, and Jim Bolger even stopped by.
2021 - Three new hydroslides added to Splash Palace
Adding these slides was part of an ambitious plan to improve the facility and put something in that would make our community extra proud.
