Proud history of Tepid Baths

Female swimmers enjoying the Tepid Baths in the 1920s.

Long history: Two children look on as female swimmers enjoy the Tepid Baths in the 1920s (top). The exterior of the building c1921 (bottom).

From City Scene, published on 22 November, 2009.

In 1914 the iconic Tepid Baths opened to massive public approval, with over 30,000 visitors in its first two months.

Initial plans for the facility were drawn up in 1912 by former city engineer, Mr WE Bush. The final design comprised of two large tiled salt-water indoor swimming pools (one for men, one for women) with dressing rooms, slipper baths (private bath tubs) and a gallery with seating for 400.

At the time, the men's pool was the largest of its kind in New Zealand and the salt water was heated from the Electric Tramways that supplied warm water from their cooling plant.

Many problems arose with water quality and heating. In the 1930s the Auckland Swimming Centre described the baths as inadequate and unhygienic. In 1974 after continuous maintenance costs, the decision was finally made to change from salt to fresh water.

Despite more substantial repairs and repainting in 1983, rising costs and decreasing patronage threatened the baths' existence. Auckland Tepid Baths Ltd subsequently took over the management and a $1 million redevelopment was undertaken in 1986, which included the addition of a weights room and aerobics studio.

In 1996 Auckland City Council bought the Tepid Baths from the Ports of Auckland for $1.5 million.

Significant major maintenance to the roof, structure and plant was undertaken in mid-1997.

The YMCA took over the lease and management of the baths in September 1997, and have since extended the mezzanine, redeveloped the fitness centre, the steam and sauna rooms, and more.