Parnell baths
1 / 16

Parnell Baths Auckland

4.3
·854 reviews·Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland's largest saltwater pool, offering a 60m swim, kids' water playground, and spa pools. Seasonal fun!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the crowds and heat

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Parnell baths

Parnell Baths Auckland

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the crowds and heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Auckland's largest saltwater pool, offering a 60m swim, kids' water playground, and spa pools. Seasonal fun!

4.3
(854 reviews)

"The largest saltwater pool in NZ, perfect for swimmers and families alike!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack your own snacks 🍎

The on-site cafe can be basic and wait times long. Bringing your own food is a smart move!

Saltwater, not chlorine! 🌊

Enjoy a swim in the largest saltwater pool in NZ – a unique experience!

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.3 · 854 reviews

Type

Swimming Pool

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 60m Saltwater Pool

The 60m Saltwater Pool

Main Pool

Dive into New Zealand's largest saltwater pool, perfect for serious swimmers and leisurely laps alike.

Kids' Water Playground

Kids' Water Playground

Dedicated Area

A splash-tastic zone with inflatables and water features, guaranteed to entertain younger visitors.

Heated Spa Pool

Heated Spa Pool

Spa Area

Unwind and relax in the warm, soothing waters of the heated spa pool after your swim.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Parnell Baths is a seasonal attraction, typically open from late spring through early autumn. Check their official opening dates before you go, as it's closed during winter months. Arriving early can help you snag a good spot, especially on warmer days.

Parking & Access

While parking is available nearby, it can get competitive, especially during peak times. Consider using public transport like the Tamaki Link bus, which stops conveniently close to the baths. This can save you the hassle of searching for a park.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the crowds and heat
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer families, more space
Crowd
Medium
When
Rainy days (if open)
Why
Warm water, quiet atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Taco Amaiz - 269 Parnell I think the area is still being developed but this is such a cool spot ! @Taco Amaiz Our favourite was the quesabirria and guac with chips #269parnell #tacoamaiz #aucklandeats #invited
@deee_onz
16.8K likes • 221.7K views

Pack your own snacks 🍎

The on-site cafe can be basic and wait times long. Bringing your own food is a smart move! Reddit

Saltwater, not chlorine! 🌊

Enjoy a swim in the largest saltwater pool in NZ – a unique experience! Reddit

PARNELL BATH'S, AUCKLAND During our visit to New Zealand we have visited many nice public swimming pools but nothing beats Parnell Bath's outdoor swimming pools This salt water pool area is the largest of its kind in New Zealand making it perfect for swimmers with its 60 m (197 ft) swim lanes. There is a nice heated spa pool too for relaxation 😍 A fine place for sun tanning also 😎 #auckland ...
akiakilles
79 likes • 0 views
Fun swim in this cool 60m pool in Auckland after arriving in New Zealand for the Ironman 70.3 World Championships. 🙌🏼 The Parnell Baths are 110 years old! Wow! 👍🏼 Had a nice long flight and feeling good. #imwc #im703wc #imwc2024 #finishstrong #auckland #newzealand #ironmanworldchampionship #dohardthings #swimbikerun #triathlon #triathlete #swimtraining #ironmantraining #triathlonlifestyle #iro...
tri_barry
56 likes • 726 views

Public transport is easy 🚌

The Tamaki Link bus stops right nearby, making access simple from the CBD. Reddit

Sun protection is key ☀️

Plenty of sunbathing spots, so bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Instagram

reddit.com

Outdoor swimming pools

Hi everyone, Any recommendations for outdoor swimming pools in Auckland? Would be cool to hear about some out west but keen for any around Auckland Thank you :)

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack your own snacks 🍎

The on-site cafe can be basic and wait times long. Bringing your own food is a smart move! Reddit

Saltwater, not chlorine! 🌊

Enjoy a swim in the largest saltwater pool in NZ – a unique experience! Reddit

Public transport is easy 🚌

The Tamaki Link bus stops right nearby, making access simple from the CBD. Reddit

Sun protection is key ☀️

Plenty of sunbathing spots, so bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Instagram

Check opening dates! 🗓️

Parnell Baths is seasonal and closes for winter. Always check before you visit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(854 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Parnell Baths is celebrated for its massive saltwater pool and family-friendly water playground, offering a unique swimming experience. While the facilities and lifeguards are generally praised, the on-site cafe's service can be slow, and parking is competitive. It's a seasonal attraction, so check opening dates before visiting.

"🏊‍♂️ Parnell Baths The Saltwater Tease 🧂💦

Rolled up to Judges Bay for a chill day and thought, “Why not check out Parnell Baths too?” Well… surprise, surprise the place is temporarily closed till November.. My first time here,already hyped about a saltwater pool experience,but nope… Had to settle with just staring at the gates like a kid locked out of Willy Wonka’s factory..

From the outside,the place looks huge,so I’m guessing when it’s open you’ll get everything from a proper swim to a good splash fight.. The only downside I can already tell... Parking. Limited spots =Hunger Games for a park...

Anyway,I’ll be back in November,ready to float in that salty glory.. Hope they fix up whatever people complained about and open brand new.. Till then… see you soon Parnell Baths.. Don’t keep us thirsty swimmers waiting. 😅

⭐️⭐️⭐️ (for the hype, even if I couldn’t dip yet).

“Logan was here… but the pool wasn’t.” 😅"

Loga_KL

"Facilities are good and the pool is excellent. Lots of lifeguards who do their job rather than just standing around. However, the cafe was a massive let down. I waited 30minutes for an iced mocha at 11am. At first there was only one staff member visible who had to do coffee and hot food orders, so I can understand there being a bit of a wait time. However then a second staff member came to help (I think she was actually lifeguard judging by what she was wearing by) who didn’t really help at all. It was obvious she didn’t know how to work a coffee machine, and if she did, not very well. A further two staff members arrived and started to help get the coffees out. I am a student and use to work in hospitality so I am sympathetic and know how demanding it can be when you have lots of orders to do, but a 30min wait with 4 staff members helping is just insane. It wasn’t even peak time, so I don’t know how they would manage this situation during peak. Like I said, the rest of the facilities are good, but the cafe is a let down."

Emily Martin

"Lovely facilities here. We enjoyed two visits here recently. The pool is very big and ideal for swimmers.
There is a great play area for children in the pool, they loved the inflatable.
The area is well run with a very good amount of lifeguards.
There is plenty of different seating areas, in the sun and shaded. Good changing facilities. Two lovely ladies run the food and drinks kiosk and there are some lovely cakes. There is a well stocked shop with swimming costumes etc.
Reception staff are polite and friendly.
Great all round. .
Parking is very good close by."

darron welch

What People Like

Large saltwater pool
Kids' water playground
Good lifeguards

What People Dislike

Slow cafe service
Limited parking
Seasonal closure

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is to take the Tamaki Link bus, which stops right next to the footbridge over the road and railway, just a short walk from the baths. Reddit Driving is also an option, but parking can be limited and competitive. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available nearby. However, it can get very busy, especially during peak season and on sunny days. Some Redditors suggest looking for free parking on Tamaki Drive, about 400m before the baths. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, the proximity to Tamaki Drive suggests it's a scenic route for cyclists. There are likely bike racks available, but it's best to confirm on-site.

Absolutely! The Tamaki Link bus service provides convenient access, with a stop located very close to the baths. Reddit

Opting for public transport like the Tamaki Link bus is a great way to bypass potential traffic congestion. Reddit Visiting during off-peak hours on weekdays can also help. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Parnell Baths prices are generally affordable, with specific rates for adults, children, and families. It's best to check the official CLM website for the most up-to-date pricing information, as it can vary. Reddit

Parnell Baths is a seasonal attraction. It typically opens in late spring and closes at the end of March, reopening for the summer season. Always check their official website for exact dates. Reddit

Generally, you can purchase tickets at the entrance. However, during peak times or for special events, it might be advisable to check if advance booking is recommended or available.

Information on specific discounts isn't widely available, but family passes are often offered. Checking the official website or inquiring at the reception upon arrival is your best bet.

Opening hours vary depending on the season and day of the week. It's crucial to consult the official Parnell Baths website for the most accurate and current operating hours before your visit. Reddit

🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience

Parnell Baths offers a 60m saltwater pool, a children's water playground with inflatables, heated spa pools, changing rooms, showers, and a kiosk for food and drinks. InstagramReddit

Yes, Parnell Baths is very family-friendly! It features a dedicated water playground with inflatables that kids love, making it a great spot for a family outing. Reddit

Absolutely! The 60m saltwater pool is ideal for lap swimming, and some visitors have even created specific workout routines for this length. TikTokReddit

No, Parnell Baths features a large saltwater pool, which is a unique selling point for many visitors seeking an alternative to chlorine. Reddit

Yes, there are plenty of lifeguards on duty who are noted for doing their job effectively, ensuring a safe environment for all swimmers. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There's an on-site cafe and kiosk that offers food and drinks, including coffee and cakes. However, some reviews mention long wait times and basic offerings, so packing your own snacks is recommended. Reddit+1

Yes, visitors are encouraged to pack their own lunch or snacks, as the on-site cafe can be basic and wait times long. This is a common tip from visitors. Reddit

The immediate area around Parnell Baths might have limited dining options. However, the nearby Parnell village offers a variety of cafes and restaurants. TikTok users have also highlighted spots like 'Taco Amaiz' in the Parnell area. TikTok

Reviews are mixed. While some mention lovely cakes and a well-stocked kiosk, others report very long wait times for coffee and food, even with multiple staff members. Reddit

It depends on your priorities. If you're in a hurry or expecting quick service, it might be disappointing. If you have time and want a convenient option, it can suffice, but packing your own is often preferred. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the expansive 60m pool with the city skyline in the background, the vibrant kids' water playground, and the relaxing spa area. The surrounding green spaces also offer nice framing. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in public swimming facilities and parks to ensure safety and privacy. It's best to check local regulations and on-site signage before attempting to fly a drone.

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting. Midday provides bright, clear light for capturing the action in the pools. Instagram

While general photography is usually allowed, be mindful of other visitors' privacy. Avoid taking close-up photos of individuals without their consent. Instagram

Popular shots include wide-angle views of the large pool, action shots of people swimming or playing, and relaxed photos of people sunbathing or enjoying the spa. Instagram+1

You may also like

1 of 2