More than 1,700 children learn to swim with Queenstown Lakes District Council’s (QLDC) Swim School each year.

Now that service has been recognised with a ‘platinum standard’ from Swimming NZ rating for both the Wānaka Recreation Centre (WRC) and Frankton’s Alpine Aqualand. 

QLDC sport and recreation manager Simon Battrick said the rating represents the quality of what is on offer at the pools on both sides of the hill.

“Receiving the platinum standard rating is the culmination of hard work and a dedicated team of instructors teaching kids an essential life skill….” he said.

The rating is for swim school services at both the Wānaka Recreation Centre (pictured) and Alpine Aqualand in Frankton. PHOTO: Wānaka App

This was especially notable “in our district which has so many fantastic opportunities to get out and enjoy the lakes and rivers.”

“Our swim schools are an essential community good and we’re continually trying to improve what we do.”

Despite the top rating, QLDC is facing ongoing challenges with staffing levels, Simon said.

This shortage is likely to get worse when current staff leave for university next March.

“We want to keep this platinum standard level of service and delivering to the highest quality, so we’re also appealing for those looking for work that teaching an essential life skill is a rewarding role to have.”

QLDC’s Swim School is currently hiring for a number of roles in both Queenstown and Wānaka. 

Successful candidates will receive on the job training which includes an Austswim Qualification – something that is recognised around New Zealand and the world.

Find more information on swim instructor roles at the council’s careers page here.

Learn more about QLDC’s Swim School, which offers classes starting at six months old and right through to the end of high school, as well as adults’ classes, here.