Image was taken at the official opening of the filtration plant at the War Memorial Baths. Mid 1960’s.

Before H2O Xtream made waves, Upper Hutt was home to the War Memorial Swimming Baths, which opened on December 13, 1958.

These iconic outdoor pools included a lengths pool, diving pool, and a toddler’s pool — all set behind a war memorial space honoring our community’s history.

Fast forward to the 1980s, when the Upper Hutt Swimming Club and community members began pushing for a year-round, enclosed facility. In 1985, a proposal for a new indoor pool was even featured in the Upper Hutt Leader!

Finally, in April 1998, the place we now call “H2O Xtream” was in process on Fergusson Drive — offering a weatherproof, modern swimming experience for all ages. The Maidstone Park pools were closed, and a new great place for a relaxing swim or a fun day out with the whānau was born.

Find out more here: https://uhcl.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/16013

Source: H2O Xtream Aquatic Centre

12/06/25