An outdoor pool in Petone was saved from closure after supporters packed a convinced Hutt City Council members on Monday night to keep it.
About 100 supporters, some in togs and goggles, told councillors that the McKenzie pool is part of the community's social fabric and is vital for primary schools there.
The 1930s pool, which is open only in summer, needs a $2.2 million upgrade. It is Petone's only public pool.
The latest council report recommended it be closed and another pool built at a complex in Lower Hutt to compensate.
However, councillors recommended that the pool be retained and have the upgrade.
