The EA Networks Centre pool area will open at 8am instead of 5.45am on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and close one hour earlier on Fridays at 6pm over the next five weeks, due to staff shortages.

All other operating hours remain unchanged. This change is effective over the five weeks from Monday 24 April until Sunday 28 May.

People and Facilities Group Manager Sarah Mosley said while the change was not ideal, it is necessary due to the ongoing impact of staffing shortages and will help provide more certainty for the centre’s customers.

“Over the recent months, opening hours have been adjusted on short notice depending on staff availability, which can be frustrating for our visitors.

“This change allows us to offer a more consistent level of service to the community while we resolve staff shortages and allow our staff time to recover from illness.”

There has been a growing shortage of lifeguards around New Zealand since the Covid-19 pandemic hit and many pools have had to resort to reduced hours or pool closures.

Ms Mosley said that recruitment was ongoing and jobs were still available.

“If there’s anyone out there that’s keen to work in a fun, team environment with full training provided, then I’d encourage them to apply.”

The current vacancies can be viewed under Recreation & Leisure at Employment Opportunities | Ashburton DC

The hours for the pool area from 24 April to 28 May are:

• Monday: 5.45am-7pm
• Tuesday: 8am-7pm (Anzac Day 1pm-7pm)
• Wednesday: 5.45am-7pm
• Thursday: 8am-7pm
• Friday: 5.45am-6pm
• Saturday and Sunday: 7am-5pm