Nelson Aquatics celebrates awards as membership grows

Nelson Aquatics has won three major honours at the 2026 CLM Awards, recognising excellence across CLM Managed aquatic and recreation facilities nationwide.

The team, which operates both Riverside Swimming Pool and Nayland Park Pool, received the Griffin Latimer Trophy for Facility of the Year, while Riverside Swimming Pool was named SwimMagic Swim School of the Year in the Under-800-Students' category. Completing the successful evening, SwimMagic Coordinator Odette Watson was awarded Staff Member of the Year.

The Griffin Latimer Cup is the highest facility honour within CLM and recognises outstanding performance across all areas of operation from customer service to team culture.

Nelson Aquatics Facility Manager Dave McKenzie said the awards reflected the commitment displayed by staff every day.

"This is an incredibly proud moment for Nelson Aquatics. Every member of our team works hard to keep our facilities clean, safe, welcoming and enjoyable for our community," McKenzie said.

"Whether they work as a lifeguard, swim teacher, fitness instructor or at reception, everyone has contributed to this achievement. These awards belong to the entire team."

The recognition comes amid significant growth for Nelson Aquatics, with participation across its pools, fitness centres and swim school increasing by approximately 25 percent over the past year. The Riverside Swim School now teaches more than 650 students.

The Facility of the Year award also carries personal significance for McKenzie.

"When I first heard there was a Facility of the Year award, I decided one day I wanted to bring it home. For years I went to the annual awards with a speech just in case," he laughed.

"It's particularly special because I first set my sights on this award around the time my son Maika was born. Today he's part of our team as a lifeguard, so to achieve this now is incredibly meaningful."

During the summer season, Nayland Pool attracts thousands of visitors and hosts school swimming sports, community events and swimming carnivals. Family Fun Days and Manu World Champs qualifier events remain major attractions.

A key initiative is the NPV volunteer programme, which focuses on creating a safe and welcoming environment by building positive relationships with youth, offering guidance, encouragement and Kai for full tummies.

To wrap up a strong evening, Saxton Stadium took home the CLM Stadium of the Year award, recognising the team’s effort in working with a range of stakeholders.