The service delivery model for Auckland Council’s pool and leisure services has been confirmed, with the council opting for an enhanced partially outsourced approach to manage the region-wide network, including the Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre.

Mayor Wayne Brown stated, “I’ve listened to our elected representatives and the community and believe it’s important that we find a compromise.”

He noted the willingness of the PSA to collaborate on achieving savings and efficiencies.

Chair of the Planning, Environment, and Parks Committee, Richard Hills, emphasised the significance of this decision.

“Today’s decision provides certainty for our communities and our staff while ensuring we have affordable, accessible centres into the future,” Hills said.

The council's Governing Body supported retaining a mixed model, which has been in place since Auckland Council was formed.

This model allows for future savings, revenue increases, and more efficient service delivery.

Director of Community Rachel Kelleher highlighted the benefits, stating, “We will continue to run a little over half of the council-owned facilities ourselves, with the remainder being operated by third-party providers under contract.”

The decision underscores the need for ongoing service enhancements and better contract management.

Kelleher added, “This allows the council to focus on and improve performance at existing council-managed sites while still making improvements to the network and exploring operational cost reductions.”

Further work will involve engagement with union partners and staff, ensuring no additional outsourcing occurs without clearly defined considerations.

The council’s strategic role in setting access, hours, and fees for the pool and leisure network remains unchanged.

In compliance with the Local Government Act, the council conducted a review of service delivery models, which coincides with contract renewals at existing outsourced sites.

These contracts will be awarded by the Revenue, Expenditure and Value Committee at a later date.