Most people expect to see swimmers, learn-to-swim students or fitness enthusiasts at their local aquatic venue, not skydivers. But at Kaipātiki Hot Springs, the Skydive Auckland team took to the pool before taking to the skies, using the venue to undertake important water-based safety training in a safe and controlled environment. 

As part of its commitment to supporting the wider community, Kaipātiki is providing access to its pools for training activities that help participants build confidence, practicse safety procedures and meet their training requirements. 

By providing access to professional facilities and qualified lifeguards, Kaipātiki is helping create an environment where participants can focus on learning while maintaining the highest standards of safety.

The training includes practical water-based exercises designed to strengthen preparedness and confidence in a controlled setting. Throughout each session, qualified lifeguards remain on duty to provide supervision and support. 

Partnership supporting safety and preparedness 

Aquatics Coordinator Philomena Sinisa said the partnership demonstrated how community venues can be used in ways that extend beyond recreation. 

“Most people don’t expect to see skydivers at their local aquatic centre, but it’s a great example of how community facilities can be used in different ways to support safety and skills development,” Philomena said. 

Venue Manager Dion Tilson said the partnership grew from a local connection into a partnership that benefits both organisations. 

“We first connected with Skydive Auckland through the local business association and started by supporting each other through cross-promotion,” Dion said. 

“As the relationship developed, they identified a need for a suitable space to undertake in-water training. With their Parakai Airbase located just over a kilometre from the venue and their operations extending across the Kaipara Harbour, access to water safety and survival training is an important part of their preparedness. 

“Being able to provide a safe, controlled environment for this training has created value for both organisations while highlighting the broader role community facilities can play in supporting local businesses, workforce development and safety outcomes.” 

Te Poari o Kaipātiki ki Kaipara welcomed the partnership and the benefits it brings to the wider region, sharing on Facebook: 

“It’s great to see Kaipātiki Hot Springs being used by local organisations in ways that benefit the wider community. Having facilities like this available for practical training is a valuable part of building skills, preparedness and safety across our rohe. Ka pai to the Skydive Auckland team and the crew at Kaipātiki Hot Springs for hosting.” 

Building stronger community connections 

While best known as a place for recreation, fitness and wellbeing, Kaipātiki Hot Springs continues to demonstrate the broader value community facilities can provide. 

Through partnerships like this, the venue is supporting workforce development, safety awareness and stronger community connections across the Kaipara region.

To learn more, visit the Kaipātiki Hot Springs website. 

Key facts: 

• Venue: Kaipātiki Hot Springs 
• Organisation: Skydive Auckland 
• Purpose: Water safety training and emergency preparedness exercises 
• Location: Kaipātiki Hot Springs pools 
• Community benefit: Supports workforce skills development, safety training and community partnerships 
• Safety measures: Qualified lifeguards supervise all training sessions 
• Outcome: Participants build confidence and practise water-based safety procedures in a controlled environment.