For more information we recommend you view either www.watersafe.org.nz OR www.aucklandcity.govt.nz
POOL FENCING REGULATIONS NZ
The following checklist is a broad guide for meeting general pool fencing requirements, however it does not cover every situation.
Pool fencing should prevent children up to six years old from climbing over, under or through to gain access to a pool. Check that
- the pool has isolation fencing where possible
- no space under the bottom of the gate or fence is greater than 100mm at any point
- horizontal rails are at least 900mm apart
- all fencing is at least 1.2m above or away from any permanent projection
- there are no holes or gaps in the fence that may provide child access to the pool area
- hinges, automatic closing devices and latches work properly at all times
- gates automatically close and latch when released from a distance of 150mm
- any windows in walls forming part of the pool fence that are less than 1.2m from the floor do not open more than 100mm
- the immediate (fenced) pool areas must not contain a vegetable garden, clothesline, child's sandpit, slide, swing or similar object, vehicle access, or pedestrian access from street through pool area.
- there are no objects close to the pool fence or otherwise accessible that could assist young children climbing the fence
- any door leading into the immediate pool area is fitted with self-closing and self-latching devices with the latch at 1.5m from floor level
- hinged doors open away from the pool
- there are door closers available that can be fitted to sliding doors.
Note - bi-folding doors are not recommended as it is difficult to self-close the entire door.
Where the property boundary forms part of the pool fence, check that
- horizontal supports on the neighbours' side of the fence are no less than 900mm apart
- there are no objects like compost bins, firewood stacks or similar that could assist young children climbing the fence.
We strongly recommend that you visit
www.watersafe.org.nz or your local council's website to become familiar with the requirements of
The Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987. Alternatively Contact Us and we can go over the rules with you.
