In this article we're going to walk you through some of our swim spas to help you find the perfect size to fit your backyard and your lifestyle.
Plunge pools, swim tethers, heat pumps and hydrotherapy – purchasing a new swim spa can be a little daunting with so many things to take into account, especially when there are so many out there to choose from.
From backyard splash pools to elite endurance training, there is a swim spa to suit everybody and every purpose. I’m going to guide you through all the different types and arm you with the information you need to make an educated decision on which Sapphire swim spa is right for you. This information is our no-nonsense guide to buying something energy efficient, practical and relevant to your family’s needs.
Deciding why you want a swim spa is the best place to start as this will set the guidelines for everything else we are about to cover, such a price, pumps and size. Deciding whether you want to use the spa for Aquatic exercise or to swim against the jets, or just a simple plunge pool to splash around and cool off is your first step.
The number of pumps you need in your swim spa will be determined by the purpose in which you will be using it. Our Plunge pools only have one pump which make them great for splashing around and having a bit of fun, but one pump alone is not enough to generate the force required for freestyle against the swim jets without a swim tether. If the purpose of your swim spa is to swim train and exercise, then we recommend the smart saver specification or Extreme models. These have a minimum of three pumps (four in the extreme) and with the strength combined, a steady swim stream is generated allowing for swimming up to elite levels.
There is a wide range as far as pricing goes, but generally a quality Australian Made swim spa will start around $15,000 and range up to $40,000 depending on size, features and equipment.
The number of pumps you have in your spa relates to how expensive the initial swim spa purchase will be. As our Plunge specification only have one pump, there is significantly less plumbing, equipment and fittings, as well as fewer standard features, making them a less expensive option. With the top of the range spas, there is generally upwards of 70+ jets, numerous pumps, elaborate plumbing and packed full of included extras/features. This, as well as the size of the swim spa will determine which end of the pricing scale you fit into.
Sapphire EXTREME swim spas are fitted with 4 swim jets & 4 pumps to power them. This allows you to swim supported by the high performance jet stream. Even a competitive swimmer will be tested to keep pace in a freestyle stoke against the most powerful swim jet stream available. EXTREME swim spas are manufactured with a fast & economic 8.8kw heat&cool pump so your spa is warm and ready for you to walk, stretch, swim & run, then enjoy a recovery massage straight after. Hooked up to 45amps of power, our top of the range EXTREME swim spas deliver a massive volume of swim jet power and also a highly therapeutic massage throughout the seated area. All our swim spa sizes and shapes, from 4 metres up to 6 metres in length, are available with these extreme specification upgrades.
Our SMARTSAVER swim spas also have 4 swim jets, but these are now powereds by 3 pumps, instead of 4. This simply means the pump power will be shared amongst the jets. Even a stong swimmer will still be able to swim supported by strong jet stream & smartsaver specification, so you can choose a swim spa that is large enough for you to also enjoy aquatic exercise and stretches. We supply a 5.5kw heat&cool pump with these smartsaver swim spas to give you fast and inexpensive spa heating. A 32amp hardwire electrical connection is required for these spas
Our 4.5 up to 6 metre swim spas are also available in the CLASSIC specification, which means they’re plumbed with 4 swim jets, powered by 2 full 3 horsepower pumps. Training for a beginner or competant swimmers is still possible against the steady jet stream and you can also walk, stretch or run supported by the bouyancy of the surrounding water. We also offer an optional, cost saving 5.5kw heat&cool pump to provide more economical temperature maintenance from the equipment which also requires a 32amp hardwire connection.
Four of our best selling swim spa shapes can also be custom manufactured as a PLUNGE pool. Plunge pools have become a popular alternative to the typical backyard swimming pool, as they are fast to install and a smaller and more manageable to maintain. With 2 swim jets powered by 1 pump, you can still enjoy the whirlpool movement of the swim jets, but it’s more suited to childs play and splashing, much like a swimming pool, however you can easily warm the water for year round use. The 2 swim jets are fun for the kids to practice swimming against and enough resistance for those needing the swim spa as a recovery or rehabilitation tool or to maintain motion throughout the older years. Our M5watersedge is much like a swimming pool with wide, shallow entry steps & open plan layout for child’s play & toddler splashing.
Even if you add an optional heat&cool pump for cheaper heat retention, our plunge pools still only require a 20amp connection to run.
Every swim spa has a built-in conventional heater. These conventional heaters are the same as the ones used in our compact spas with 1000 litres or less, but when utilised in a swim spa with 6000 litres it is inefficient and costly to run. We will always recommend that an external heat & cool pump is added to the swim spa to drastically reduce running costs and keep the spa energy efficient and sustainable to run. The built in conventional heater drawing 23.5 amps is then overridden by the external heat pump which only draws 5.5 resulting in a more energy efficient heat system. Running costs for the built in heater are approximately $9.80 per day versus $1.80 with a heat pump.
External heat and cool pumps are included as a standard feature in all our smart saver & extreme model swim spas.
The next thing to decide on is the size of the swim spa you would like to install and the amount of seats required. Our range has something to suit everyone, with swim spas starting from 4m all the way through to 6m long in various different seating arrangements and designs. Although you are looking to purchase a swim spa, you still won’t miss out on all the great hydrotherapy features that come with a spa as all our swim spas are fitted with luxurious seating options at one end, and a large open swim area at the other. The seating options stretch from a two seater all the way through to twelve, some with full body reclining seats as well as neck & shoulder massage jets. Each seat has an array of different jet types and positions designed to target all muscles of the body so once you have finished your swim training, these seats will help with muscle recovery or any discomfort.
Getting your area ready for your swim spa delivery? Most swim spas hold around 6000 litres of water so a firm solid base is essential. A reinforced 125mm thick concrete slab is ideal and leaving an additional 200mm of concrete around the edges of your spa is recommended for stability if your site allows for it. Each specification level of swim spas require a different amount of power and this will need to be hardwired into the control box of your spa by a licenced electrician once delivery has taken place. Check with your Sapphire Spas retailer for the exact power requirements your swim spa needs, or find them on our website. The external heat pump for your spa will also need to sit on a concrete slab but does not need it’s own power source. It will connect into the control box of your spa, allowing it to be fully integrated and give you the ability to control your temperature with ease from the touchpad. Due to the size and weight of a swim spa, these need to be delivered with a crane to lift them into position. Normally a small crane truck will do the job, but if you have limited access or require a lift over a double storey house, your local Sapphire Spa retailer will be able to organise a free site inspection to work out the best delivery route option for you.
Why not book a wet test at your local retailer and find out what all the fuss is about!
The classic all-year option. Highly customisable with a range of sizes, features, and swim jet choices. Each swim spa type can come in Classic, Premium, or Extreme, catering for child’s play through to extreme swim training.
A Sapphire swim spa is a great way to enjoy all the benefits of a spa and a pool in the comfort of your own home. Swim Spas offer many benefits over traditional pools, they are portable and self-contained, so there’s no need for excavation or plumbing work. They can replace a gym membership, with your choice of swim jet configurations to ensure you can walk, run or competitively swim in your own backyard. They also replace your masseuse, make the most of your free time sitting back and enjoying the hydrotherapy massage jets as they wash away your muscle aches and pains. Plus, with their integral heating, a Sapphire Spas swim spa is a true all-seasons swimming pool solution. Make the most of your time with a Sapphire Spas swim spa, the perfect way to work out, relax or play.
A pool and spa combined. Dualzone splits your seated and swimming areas so more people can enjoy the pool, whatever they feel like doing. Dualzone are available in Classic and Premium options.
If you can’t decide between a swim spa or spa pool the myDualzone is the perfect choice. This 2-in-1 swim spa and spa pool offers all the benefits of owning both. The 2.2m x 2m spa pool offers superb relaxation for up to five people. It includes seats completed with neck and should massagers, including two recliner positions of different lengths to suit users of any height. The swim spa is 4m long and being a dedicated swim spa, is long enough for any user to get a full workout. The Dualzone comes with up to five pumps, including three dedicated swim jet pumps giving the swim spa enough power for professional swim training, or you can dial the power right back to still to suit users of any capability. With a myriad of customisations and add-ons including in-bult HiFi, remote-control and water spouts, the Dualzone is ideal for those who want the best of both worlds.
These are similar to a small pool with a generous open swim area perfect for families. This smaller pool heats quickly, has fewer seats, and low strength jets, perfect for a little resistance and rehab but not for swim training.
Find detailed specifications on each swim spa’s product page.
Sapphire Spas plunge pools offer a year-round alternative to traditional swimming pools. With efficient heating systems, you can keep the pool warm in winter and cool it down in summer. Additionally, including swim jets allows for light exercise or fun water play for kids.
Sapphire Spas are proudly Australian made and manufactured, providing warranty, care commitment across New Zealand and spare parts. Every swim spa is meticulously crafted from premium materials, and we can customise your spa to your exact requirements.
Using quality materials, corrosion-resistant stainless-steel frames, premium-grade acrylic shells, and robust plumbing and electrical systems, means your spa will stand the test of time. Not only that, because we don’t skimp on quality materials, you’re investing in a swim spa with great heating and insulation systems saving you from high heating and other unexpected costs down the track.
Read more about why Australian made spa pool are better suited for New Zealand climate.
Explore stunning Swim Spa installations throughout New Zealand and discover how these innovative aquatic features transform outdoor spaces into luxurious retreats. Whether nestled within lush gardens or overlooking breathtaking landscapes, each installation showcases the versatility and elegance of Swim Spas. From serene backyard oases to stylish poolside settings, these inspiring examples demonstrate the endless possibilities for enhancing your outdoor living experience with a Swim Spa.
M5 workout swim spa installation by Paramount Pools and Spa, Auckland
Swim Spa installed by Pool Clinic, Wanganui, New Zealand
Swim Spa installed by Spa Pools Otago, New Zealand
M6Watersedgeswimspa installed by Paramount Pools and Spa, Tauranga, New Zealand
As we’ve mentioned, the swim spa is a versatile piece of equipment satisfying a range of uses.
Swim spas provide resistance for use in physiotherapy as well as luxurious seating options for recovery and relaxation.
Our Extreme swim spas include jet settings to challenge even the strongest swimmers. Configure your spa just the way you like it with options to create an aquagym, complete with rehab and fitness benefits, and for simple enjoyment.
A splash with the kids in the heat of summer or a relaxation spot in winter, nothing beats a swim spa!
Swim spas typically range from 3m to 6m in length and are 2.3m wide and 1.3m deep. To choose your optimal size, think about the following areas.
Compared with their larger cousins, the inground pool, swim spas are versatile when it comes to positioning them on your property. As well as the backyard, swim spas sit nicely on a deck or patio, or in the sunroom or garage. Talk to our retailers across New Zealand for positioning recommendations and inspiration.
Remember! Allow extra space around the swim spa for the floor pad, accessing each side of the spa, external heaters, safety gates etc.
The myWorkout Series Swim Spas offer an exercise solution that is both effective and gentle. With the natural buoyancy of water, your workout becomes a low-impact activity, easing strain on your joints while maintaining mobility and flexibility.
Beyond serving as a fantastic workout space, the myWorkout swim spa offers additional benefits. Strategically positioned jets target key muscle groups, aiding in post-workout recovery. Utilize the powerful jet stream to strengthen muscles during your workout, or enjoy a relaxing soak after hitting the gym to facilitate quicker recovery and promote optimal muscle relaxation. Paired with a wholesome dinner with loved ones, it's the ideal conclusion to a productive day.
With myWatersedge Series swim spas, you can actively participate in your child’s swimming lessons right from the comfort of your backyard. This welcoming atmosphere cultivates water confidence, turning your spa into a dynamic learning center for the entire family to participate in and enjoy.
Available in lengths of 4m, 5m, and 6m, the myWatersedge swim spa presents an excellent alternative to traditional backyard swimming pools. As a portable spa, it offers a simpler installation process compared to conventional pools, sparing you from extensive structural modifications or labor-intensive construction work.
We’ve considered if you’ll use the spa primarily for fitness, therapy, or enjoyment. Now you need to think about who and how many people will use the swim spa. Is it the whole family at once where you’ll need space for seating and play? Do you want to maximise the number of people seated at once (we can cater for up to 12 seats)? Are there young tots who can sit in the shallows of a plunge pool while you enjoy the depths?
You can find the recommended maximum people on swim spa range.
Of course, budget plays a part in how big we can go. Think about what you can reasonably spend on a swim spa. Our spa retailers across New Zealand are happy to recommend the best swim spa options for your budget. We strongly recommend you choose a quality spa as cheaper materials can end up costing you far more in heating and reduce the lifetime of your swim spa. We talk budget in the next section.
With a wide variety of sizes and features, there’s a swim spa to suit your budget. As a guide, an Australian-made, quality swim spa starts at around $15,000 and ranges up to $40,000 depending on your size, features and equipment. This is a little more than the average spa pool but a fraction of the cost of a traditional pool. And with the versatility to use throughout the year, swim spas offer bang for your buck.
On the less expensive side, you can’t go past our plunge pools. With a single pump, simpler plumbing, and strategically removed jets, we’ve created these to be big on enjoyment for a smaller budget.
If you’re looking for a larger swim spa, powerful jets, numerous pumps, elaborate plumbing, extra features, there are plenty of spas in the range, with optional extras if budget allows.
You’ll also need to consider the ongoing costs of heating and running the pool.
The quality of your swim spa, its size and features, as well as your climate, the seasons, and electricity prices all affect running costs. Based on an average 6,000 litre swim spa, we estimate the average running cost at $9*per day—a little less in summer and a little more in winter.
To reduce running costs, choose a quality swim spa with an external heat and cool pump; these come as standard in most Sapphire swim spas.
*Disclaimer: The electricity cost may fluctuate; however, the figures provided are as accurate as possible at the time of writing.
Ready to decide and buy your very own swim spa? Read our spa customer reviews, then come and see our spas in action at our retailers across New Zealand. Get inside, try out the seats, and see how roomy they really are.
Happy exploring for the perfect spa!
