Raise the woof at annual Pooch Pool Parties

Get ready to paw-ty with your pup at Christchurch’s popular Pooch Pool Parties next month.

Tails will be wagging as hundreds of canines will show off their swimming skills at Waltham and Templeton Summer Pools.

Christchurch City Council Head of Recreation, Sports and Events Nigel Cox says the pooch parties are a highlight of the swimming season for dog owners.

“We know how excited owners get each year when these events come around, and they’re always a roaring success,” Mr Cox says.

In 2023, more than 650 dogs dipped their paws in and took the plunge.

“There are a few rules – your dog needs to be vaccinated and well behaved,” says Mr Cox.

No humans are allowed in the pool and dogs will need to remain leashed until they get to the pool area.

Dog owners must ensure they have full control of their dog and are expected to manage bad behaviour.

Sponsored by Joes Garage and Purr. Meow. Woof., the pool parties will be split over two days on 6 and 7 April.

The Waltham session is on Saturday 6 April with different session times based on your pooch’s size. Small dogs (up to 46cm) can splash around from 9 – 10.30am, medium dogs (46 – 64cm) from 11am – 12.30pm, large dogs (over 64cm) from 1 – 2.30pm, and an open session for all sizes from 3 – 4.30pm.

Templeton Summer Pool will be open to all dogs from 10am – 12pm.

Free microchipping will be available at all pool party sessions, Aldwins Road Vet clinic will offer free dental hygiene checks and Purr. Meow. Woof. will be engraving ID tags on site.

This event is run in association with the Christchurch City Council Animal Management Team who will donate all proceeds to a deserving cause. It costs $3.50 per dog at the Waltham Pool and a gold coin entry at the Templeton Pool.

After the event, the pools will be prepared for their winter shutdown. Find more information here.