The secret’s out - it has been a not-so-hidden gem in the community since it was opened last year but now the Roxburgh Pool Punawai Ora is gaining national recognition.

The community pool won gold in the Designers Institute of New Zealand Best Design Awards on Friday night.

The pool was entered in the private, public and institutional spaces/private development - up to $3million category. 

Teviot Ward councillor Sally Feinerman said for a community of 700 people in Roxburgh and 1200 in Teviot Valley winning gold was an exceptional outcome.

“It shows that a small community can build something that is worthy of national recognition.

“Taking out the gold is a really big deal.

“The project wouldn’t have happened without the architect Hierarchy and [project managers] Inovo, who gave us help to get the project off the ground… They really wanted us to get this pool too.”

Swimmers take a dip at Roxburgh Pool Punawai Ora last season. PHOTO: Lightforge - Dennis Radermacher 

Sally said for the members of the pool committee it was a great outcome to win the award alongside delivering the pool complex facility for the community to enjoy.

“First of December we’ll be opening for the season, and there will be a working bee in November to make sure everything is tidied up.”

Hierarchy Group design director Chris Wheeler said they were thrilled.

“A heartfelt thank you goes out to our client, consultants, and everyone who has played a part in making [this achievement] possible. “

The judges comments were that the revitalised pool was “an architectural gem that blends sustainability and design”.

“This community-driven project showcases collaboration and innovation in revitalising a vital community landmark. 

“The undulating form of the building, with its vibrant ochre panels, creates a striking visual form that encapsulates a welcoming and inclusive space.”

An aerial view of the Roxburgh Pool alongside the Mata-Au (Clutha) River. PHOTO: Lightforge - Dennis Radermacher

Chris said in May they were planning to put the project forward in other design industry awards this year and next. 

Next month the pool is in the running for Architectural Designers New Zealand (ADNZ) architecture awards, winners will be announced at a gala dinner in Rotorua on Friday November 1. 

Local firm Breen Construction, together with Coombes Aquatics built the new 25m lane pool, learn to swim and toddlers pool, replacing the 89-year facility that was decommissioned on the same site.

New changing rooms, office space and a plant room were included in the long-awaited pool project.

The Roxburgh Pool committee has worked hard over the past 16 years navigating numerous finance, planning and design challenges to successfully fundraise the $2.7 million needed for the project.

Read more: Roxburgh Pool entered in architecture awards

Read more: Roxburgh Pool a new reality after 16 years