Ultimate Plunge Pool Guide for New Zealand

19 April, 2024

Thinking of getting a plunge pool for your home but don’t know where to start? We’ve got you covered.

Sapphire Spas is your go-to for Australian-made, high-quality spas, swim spas and plunge pools. We’ll guide you through everything to know about these versatile pools that combine the benefits of a pool and the soothing properties of a massage spa.

What Is A Plunge Pool?

A plunge pool offers both fitness and leisure options. Equipped with swim jets, it creates a current allowing you to enjoy light swimming and hydrotherapy exercises in the comfort of your own space. While some traditional plunge pools can reach considerable depths, Sapphire plunge pools have a reasonable depth of 1300mm, ideal for both plunging and easy for maintenance.

Plunge pools offer a year-round alternative to traditional swimming pools with their efficient heating systems; you can keep the pool warm in winter and cool it down in summer. Plus, they also feature swim jets for light exercise or fun water play for kids.

Investing in a plunge pool is a significant choice that requires thoughtful planning. At Sapphire Spas, we're here to help you every step of the way, making sure you pick a plunge pool that suits your needs, budget, and style preferences perfectly.

Average Sizes: How Big Are Plunge Pools?

The first step in buying a plunge pool is to decide on a size. Plunge pools are generally more compact than swimming pools and range from small to medium and large.

Average length: two to six metres
Average width: two to four metres

Think about the space you have available and how much of it you want to allocate to your pool. A perfect plunge pool should seamlessly fit into your outdoor area, enhancing its charm without making the space look too busy or affecting its functionality.

Small Plunge Pools

These pools are great for families, as kids can practise swimming against the current while parents watch and relax in the recliner seats with the massage jets. Adults can also engage in a refreshing workout.

Medium-Sized Plunge Pool

These medium-sized plunge pools offer ample room for relaxation, hydrotherapy, and water exercises.

Large Plunge Pools

More space, more fun. With their 6.0-metre size, large plunge pools like the myWorkout6.0mPLUNGE and myWatersedge6.0mPLUNGE provide extended space to engage in swimming, water yoga and aqua exercises.

More Factors To Consider When Buying a Plunge Pool

Now that you know the size you want, there are a few more things to consider to make sure your plunge pool is just right for you:

Plunge Pool Design: This includes the pool's shape and its colour and additional features like jets, a heating system, or integrated lighting. At Sapphire Spas, we offer a variety of design options for plunge pools, allowing you to select a style that aligns with your vision and enhances your home's aesthetic appeal.
Plunge Pool Materials: This factor can significantly impact your plunge pool's lifespan, aesthetics, and maintenance requirements. Concrete, fibreglass, and acrylic are popular plunge pool materials, and each comes with pros and cons.
For example, concrete offers durability and flexibility in design but requires more maintenance, while fibreglass and acrylic are less maintenance and quicker to install but offer less design flexibility.
Location Of The Plunge Pool: Your pool should be easily accessible and blend seamlessly with landscaping. It's also worth considering privacy, sun exposure, and proximity to your home. An expert from Sapphire Spas can help assess your property and recommend an optimal placement.
Cost Of A Plunge Pool: Consider the initial outlay and ongoing maintenance and running expenses. Our team at Sapphire Spas is transparent about costs and can help you understand the total investment involved, making sure there are no surprises.

How Deep Should A Plunge Pool Be?

The typical depth of a plunge pool ranges from 1 to 1.5 metres in depth. This depth allows for submerging the body and enjoying the benefits of hydrotherapy. It perfectly balances relaxation and therapeutic benefits within a compact and inviting space.

Plunge Pools vs Regular Pools: What’s The Difference?

Plunge pools are smaller in size, shallower in depth, and typically feature a compact design that makes them suitable for smaller outdoor spaces. Here are the main differences in detail:

Size and Space: Plunge pools are smaller and perfect for relaxing and cooling off. If you have limited space or want a cosier pool experience, a plunge pool could be just right.
Depth and Purpose: Plunge pools are shallower and great for lounging and creating a peaceful oasis. Regular swimming pools are deeper and designed for laps and water sports. It depends on what you prefer and how you'll use it.
Features and Accessories: Both can be customised. Plunge pools often have spa features like jets for relaxation. Regular pools might include fun features like diving boards for family entertainment.
Maintenance and Cost: Plunge pools are easier to maintain and cost less. Their smaller size makes cleaning and maintenance simpler. Plus, installing a plunge pool is usually more affordable than a regular swimming pool.

Are Plunge Pools Worth It?

Plunge pools are an investment in relaxation and well-being and add to the value of your property. Their compact size offers a personal oasis, combining the benefits of a spa and a pool. Here are ten reasons to consider buying a plunge pool for your home:

Space Savvy: Plunge pools are perfect for small outdoor areas, fitting snugly into modest backyards or petite patios.
Versatile Relaxation: Sapphire Spas' plunge pools offer the flexibility to relax and engage in hydrotherapy or aqua therapy.
Refreshingly Cool or Warm Retreat: You can enjoy a refreshing dip on a hot summer day or a warm winter soak.
Health Boost: Immersion therapy, alternating between hot and cold water, enhances blood flow, detoxifies the body, and promotes muscle recovery.
Convenient Fitness: Keep up with your fitness routine using swim jets, bringing the gym to the convenience of your home.
Improved Circulation: A plunge pool promotes better circulation, making it a favourite among athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Cost-Effective Maintenance: Smaller water volume means fewer chemicals, reducing maintenance costs for a plunge pool.
Energy-Efficient Choice: Plunge pools require less energy for heating or cooling, making them an eco-friendly option.
Easy Cleaning: The smaller size makes cleaning a breeze, saving both time and effort.
Home Hydrotherapy: Enjoy the benefits of immersion therapy in the comfort of your home with a Sapphire Spas plunge pool.

Are Plunge Pools Hard To Maintain?

Plunge pools are not hard to maintain. Routine tasks involve:

Keeping an eye on water chemistry
Cleaning pool surfaces
Maintaining proper filtration
Servicing equipment when necessary

Their smaller size simplifies maintenance, making plunge pools an easy and enjoyable addition to your outdoor space.

How Much Is A Plunge Pool?

A high-quality Australian-made plunge pool from Sapphire Spas typically starts at around $25,000 + delivery and installation. The price can go up depending on factors like size, features, and equipment.

The number of jets, pumps, and additional equipment plays a role in the overall cost. Top-of-the-range plunge pools come with 70+ jets, multiple pumps, advanced plumbing, and added features, affecting the pricing scale.

Your choice of size and desired features will determine where you fall in the price range, ensuring you get the perfect plunge pool to suit your preferences and budget.

Who Instals Plunge Pools Near Me?

Sapphire Spas has retail partners to deliver, install and service plunge pools. Whether you're looking for plunge pools in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch, our spa experts can offer efficient service and broad technical knowledge for your unique spa needs.

Find your local Sapphire Spas showroom:

North Island Spa Stores
South Island Spa Stores

Book a virtual consultation if you can’t find a showroom close to you, or give us a ring at 0800 477 276.

Recap: Key Points On Plunge Pools

Plunge pools are compact, deep, and designed for relaxation, cooling off, and hydrotherapy.
Small, medium, and large plunge pools range from 2 to 6 metres.
You can customise your plunge pool with various features like jets, heating systems, and lighting for a tailored outdoor experience.
Plunge pools are cost-effective, easy to maintain, and offer energy-efficient options compared to regular swimming pools.
Health and fitness benefits: plunge pools provide year-round alternatives for relaxation, hydrotherapy, and fitness, contributing to improved circulation and overall well-being.
Sapphire Spas' NZ stores ensures efficient delivery, installation, and service, making finding and installing plunge pools across various locations in Australia convenient.

And that’s a wrap on plunge pools! Browse our collection of premium, Australian-made plunge pools and get in touch with your local Sapphire Spas distributor for more details.