Pool staffing reaches critical point
Central Otago District Council pools are facing a critical shortage of lifeguards that could see the community facilities reduce operation hours.
CODC Aquatics Manager Carly Getson said they were not alone in this issue. Many councils including Queenstown Lakes were struggling to find staff and have had to reduce operation at the Queenstown and Wanaka pools.
‘We have not received any applications in our recent recruitment process. Our lifeguards are central to the successful operation of our swimming pools. Unfortunately, there is a lack of available trained lifeguards in the region, which is also reflected in the wider aquatic and recreation industry at the moment. We are facing a variety of workforce issues in our communities that are very much covid related.
“Water safety is always our highest priority, and we understand the expectation from our community for pools to be open as normal.
“The reality if we don’t hire staff soon there isn’t enough staff to operate seven days a week across our pools and to do so safely.”
The council is urging people who are out of work or looking for a career change to consider diving into a new career.
The Council is looking for people with a passion for supporting the community’s health and wellbeing, who enjoy working in a customer service environment, and can swim 200m in under six minutes. Full training will be provided.
If you think this sounds like you or know some who would make a great lifeguard, please send a cover letter and CV to people@codc.govt.nz, we have a range of full time and part time shifts available.
