Conquer the Water with the 5 Best Swim Lessons in Auckland
David Sims
| Last Updated: November 2024 If you’ve ever seen Jaws, you probably have a bit of a love-hate relationship with water! But let’s be real—swimming is an essential life skill. I mean, you never know when you might find yourself face-to-face with a big body of water, right?
So, my team and I decided to dive into the world of swim lessons around Auckland to find the cream of the crop. Spoiler alert: some of these classes are seriously fun! A few of us even signed up to become regulars!
So, if you’re ready to level up your swimming game, let’s jump in and explore your options!
How much do swimming lessons cost in Auckland?
How We Chose The Best Swim Lessons in Auckland
1. Trent Bray Swim School
At Trent Bray Swim School, students can’t stop raving about the great energy and personal attention they get during lessons. The school’s program is designed to help swimmers progress at their own pace, no matter their skill level.
Some of the more advanced students we talked to said they really loved how the instructors focused on small details, like refining their technique and building endurance. A few even felt ready to dive into competitive swimming!
One swimmer mentioned that even after two years, he’s still learning better breathing and stroke techniques.
When we visited, it was easy to see why students thrive here. The small class sizes mean every swimmer gets personalized instruction.
Plus, the school has amazing water quality thanks to its cutting-edge treatment system—it keeps chlorine low and the water sparkling clear.
Parents love the convenience too. The school’s mobile app keeps them in the loop with class schedules, attendance, and updates, making everything easy to manage.
The only real challenge is that classes fill up fast! Several students mentioned how tough it can be to get a spot at a convenient time.
Excellent swim classes to all levels
“Excellent swim classes from absolute beginner to more advanced. They are particularly good with small children where the instructors are in the water with the kids. Overall a nice friendly atmosphere here too. Highly recommended.”
Conor Morrison, Google review
TBSS is the best swim school in Auckland!
“TBSS is the best swim school in Auckland! Have been going here since my daughter was about 5 months old. They run small classes, and are able to give each child the attention they need, and adjust exercises based on each child’s ability. The staff are all incredible. Very happy we found TBSS.”
Carmen Holyoake, Google review
2. SwimTastic
Since SwimTastic is a great spot for swimming lessons for all ages, we tried one of their classes. One of our teammates even experienced the lessons alongside their kids, which really added to the fun!
We also found out that they’ve been in the game for over 35 years, so they have that solid reputation in swim education.
The facilities are impressive, too! They’ve got advanced water treatment systems that keep the water clean and safe. The attention to cleanliness and safety truly elevates the experience, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment.
What we really loved was the flexible membership options that cater to various needs. You can opt for regular lessons or just some casual swim time.
But here’s the thing: that flexibility can lead to some crowded moments, especially during the afternoon and weekends. When we swung by, there were quite a few swimmers in the pool!
Exceptional teaching style and connects well with students
“Great place, well organized but the standout has been my son’s teacher, Charlotte who has helped him with his swimming classes. She has been exceptional with her approach and should be commended for her style of teaching, connecting well with her students, teaching great skills, and discipline. Thank you, Charlotte for your amazing work and the SwimTastic team for your work.”
Sam Farid, Google review
The adult classes that focus around health are fun
“This is a great pool and they offer a lot of classes for adults and kids! The adult classes that focus around health are fun. I suggest trying the water aerobics class regardless of your age or fitness level. It’s genuinely a fun time and you work at your own pace so your heart rate can get pumping or stay low and steady. The pool itself is very clean and the staff are lovely.”
Jordan Lily Legros, Google review
3. Aqua Artist Swim School
At Aqua Artist Swim School, all instructors are certified and experienced. They regularly participate in training sessions to stay updated on the latest swimming techniques.
We witnessed this when one of our researchers took their classes. The instructors truly focused on his needs and helped him improve. While they offer lessons for adults, their kids’ classes are a big hit with parents!
They not only teach kids how to swim but also how to stay safe around water. They also work hard to build confidence, helping their students face their fears and develop a positive attitude towards swimming.
We got to catch a glimpse of one of their classes and noticed how each lesson revolves around a specific artistic theme. This lets kids engage with swimming concepts through storytelling and imaginative play.
They even encourage students to express themselves through movement, blending dance-like motions into swimming techniques. These innovative teaching methods make lessons super fun and engaging, especially for kids.
That said, their pricing feels a bit higher compared to other swim schools in the area.
My daughters have progressed rapidly
“My two daughters have been learning swimming here, and we are incredibly pleased with the experience. The coaches are highly professional and attentive, always correcting the children’s techniques promptly. As a result, my daughters have progressed rapidly. We’re grateful for the dedication and expertise of the instructors here. Highly recommend this school for anyone looking to learn swimming in a supportive and effective environment!”
Rachel Wang, Google review
My child looks forward to coming to class every week
“My child has been learning at Aqua Artist swimming school for quite sometime. She really enjoys learning here and looks forward to coming to class every week. The coaches are very patient and professional. It’s amazing to see the progress being made each time. Highly recommended!”
Kelly Zheng, Google review
4. Rangitoto Swim School
We tried to book a class at Rangitoto, but the slow response time had us feeling a bit frustrated at first. But once we finally secured a spot, we were really impressed by their innovative teaching techniques.
They use video analysis, so the instructors record us and give super detailed feedback on our swimming form. It’s a total game-changer that allows quick improvements.
Plus, they showed us this cool swim-tracking software that keeps tabs on their students’ progress. This helps instructors tailor lessons just for them.
The most exciting part was trying out their virtual reality. One of our researchers was really scared of water, but the VR experience helped her conquer some of her fears and boosted her confidence to try swimming more.
With a solid curriculum and top-notch facilities, we think the place is totally worth it!
Great for building confidence!
“Fantastic swim school for littlies! Small classes, not overwhelming for nervous swimmers. Great for building confidence. The pool and changing area are well heated. Lovely owners and teachers.”
Sarah Young, Google review
The personalised touch makes my son way more comfortable in the water
“Best swim school and I have tried a number of different schools in the shore! My boy didn’t used to like swimming until I move him to Rangitoto Swim School. The smaller classes and personalised touch makes my son way more comfortable in the water. Thank you Rebekah and team.”
Karina Illic, Google review
5. Hilton Brown Swimming
It was a bit chillier than usual when we dropped by Hilton Brown Swimming. However, the pool felt super comfy for learning, with the water heated to a cozy 32°C. This warmth is especially nice for little ones just starting out!
They’ve got this high-tech filtration system that keeps the water quality top-notch, so every swim feels safe and pleasant.
We got to peek in on a class, and we were blown away to see babies as young as three months learning how to swim!
And don’t worry—adults can join in the fun too. This age-inclusive vibe makes it super easy for families to splash around together.
What really sets them apart is their continuous assessment method. Instead of waiting for a whole term to end, swimmers get bumped up to the next level as soon as they’re ready.
We also chatted with some parents, and they love getting regular updates on how their kids are doing. Plus, they raved about how all of the instructors were so patient in teaching their kids.
However, they also mentioned to us that the lessons can be a bit pricier compared to other swim schools.
Awesome instructors, great facility,and best customer service
“Awesome instructors and one of the best customer service I’ve ever had. Great facility. Shower space is always nice and clean. Highly recommended.”
Sheetal Lawrence, Google review
The level of service and patience has far exceeded customer service
“I’m not 1 for reviews but credit is due where credit is deserved. My daughter had originally started with Hilton Brown at the age of 5 months, we then came back when she was 2 and the staff at the Penrose branch are unmatched. The level of service, patience and professionalism you all have shown to our children has far exceeded customer service. She now knows a lot of water tricks compared to when I were her age and her confidence in the water is my absolute favorite part about it. Thank you, thank you so much for all the work you do with our Tamariki. Team Hilton Brown Penrose always.”
Bethel Fualau, Google review
