About Trust House Recreation Centre
Trust House Recreation Centre is Masterton’s main indoor sports and aquatic complex, serving the entire Wairarapa district. It is a multi-purpose leisure venue (managed by Belgravia Leisure for the council since 2017 (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz )) that houses a large indoor stadium, a split-level gym and extensive aquatic facilities. The centre was originally known as the Genesis Energy Recreation Centre (reflecting its former sponsor) and was rebranded after Trust House Foundation became a naming sponsor. The site boasts award-winning programs (for example its Swim Tangaroa swim school) and extensive family amenities (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ). In all it accommodates over 200,000 visits per year (www.ausleisure.com.au ), making it one of the busiest recreation facilities in the region. Signature features include dual 25 m lap pools, leisure pools, a spa and sauna, and fun attractions like a lazy river and waterslides (including an 8-lane speed slide) (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ) (wairarapanz.com ). These varied facilities – from fitness classes to waterslides – make the Trust House Recreation Centre a unique hub for sport, health and family recreation in Masterton.
Events and Programming
The centre isn’t just for individual workouts — it hosts a wide variety of community events and sports competitions. Its full-sized sports stadium (a flat-floor court area) is regularly used for regional tournaments and school events. For instance, in March 2023 it hosted the Wairarapa Senior Regional Games (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). The aquatic centre runs the popular Swim Tangaroa learn-to-swim program and weekly group fitness classes (spin, aerobics, etc.) (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ) (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ). It also accommodates after-school, holiday care and youth activities – the “ChillOut” program collects kids from school for afternoon sports and play sessions (www.ausleisure.com.au ).
Periodically the venue is rented out for community and charitable events. Recent examples include a World Refugee Day gathering (June 2025) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ), a White Ribbon charity event (November 2023) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) and Christmas functions. In late 2024 the centre even hosted a “Masterton Wairarapa Family Fun Day” for vulnerable families, offering free slides and pool access along with entertainment (cartoon characters and clowns) (events.humanitix.com ). In past years it has also seen motivational and wellness events (for example, Mike King’s “I Am Hope” tour in 2018). In short, the Rec Centre’s calendar is full of everything from fitness classes and swim meets to festivals and holiday workshops, making it a true community venue.
Tickets and Booking
For daily use of the pools and gym, visitors pay at the front desk or online. Casual entry fees are modest – for example, an adult (15+) single-entry “swim-only” ticket is about $6.00, while the combo pool+spa/sauna pass is $8.00 (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ). Children and seniors have discounted rates (e.g. children under 15 or seniors 65+ are ~$4.50 for swim-only (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz )). A toddler or baby under 5 can enter free with a paying adult (one free child per adult) (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ). The centre also offers memberships and passes for frequent visitors (weekly adult gym membership ~$20.50 per week, swim-only membership ~$16.50 per week (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz )), which make visiting even more economical. Purchased tickets or memberships can be used directly at reception – there is no separate box-office for events.
For larger ticketed events (like charity galas or performances occasionally held there), tickets are usually handled by the event’s promoter rather than at the Rec Centre itself. Always check with the organiser of any concert or fundraiser for how to buy those tickets. In practice, everyday entry to the pools and gym works like a recreation centre booking – you just arrive, sign in at reception and pay the applicable fee or swipe your membership card. The facility is open to drop-ins year-round (see below for hours), so no advance booking is needed for normal pool/gym use. For sessions that fill up (often early-morning lap lanes or popular fitness classes), it’s best to arrive early or enquire about pre-paying online if available.
Seating and Layout
The centre’s layout is built for sport and fitness rather than theatre. A large, flat-floored stadium hall contains the courts (used for netball, basketball, badminton etc.) with portable seating or bleachers along the sides. There is no permanent stage or proscenium — any ‘stage’ set-up is temporary. Seating is generally on bench-style bleachers to the side of the court; these are fine for watching sports games or school assemblies. In the pools area, spectator space is minimal (just walkway seating around the pools), so if children are swimming it’s common for parents to stand poolside or use the glass-wall viewing near the toddler pool. There are benches and some chairs in the foyer and seating areas by the entrance. Because most events here are active (sports, swim lessons, community fairs), the focus is on clear sightlines and accessibility rather than luxury seating. In general, any spot close to the action (on the side of the court or near the pool edges) gives a good view. Avoid the far corners of the overlapping pool deck when lap swimming – for example, the newly refurbished changing areas are not near the pools themselves (www.mstn.govt.nz ).
Getting There and Parking
Address: The Recreation Centre is located at 2 Dixon Street North, Masterton (postcode 5810), right across from Queen Elizabeth II Park (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ) (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ). This puts it on Masterton’s north side, about a 2-3 minute drive from the main town square. The parkland (QEII Park) is literally next door (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ), so you’ll often see sports fields and playgrounds just steps away from the entrance.
By car: There is an on-site parking lot that can accommodate dozens of cars. Parking is generally free and includes accessible spots right by the main entrance (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ). Because it’s a district council facility, there is no paid parking enforcement in the lot. During peak hours or big events you may find the lot busy – if so, a short walk of 100–200m along Dixon Street leads to additional street parking or the QEII Park free parking. Taxi drop-offs can use the drive-up entry, and rideshare drivers know the address as ‘Trust House Recreation Centre’.
Public transit: Masterton is served by Metlink and local bus operators. The core Metlink bus route 200 loops through Masterton, Carterton, Greytown and beyond (www.metlink.org.nz ). Buses coming into Masterton will stop near the town centre; from there you can walk or take a local shuttle. The closest bus stops are on Dixon Street near Memorial Square, roughly a 5-10 minute walk. (Walk south on Dixon St to Church Street, take a left into the town centre; Queen Street is the main road.) Masterton’s central bus interchange is actually on Queen Street near the i-SITE, about 1.5 km (20 min walk) from the Centre. Guests arriving by train should disembark at Masterton rail station (Wellington – Wairarapa line) and then take a taxi or bus north to QEII Park. Cycling and walking paths also link downtown Masterton with Dixon Street North, making it easy to bike or walk to the facility if desired.
Inside the Venue
Entry and reception: Upon arriving at the Centre, enter through the main foyer off Dixon Street. Staff at reception will check your pass or take payment. They can answer questions, print day passes or renew memberships. Bag storage lockers are available for a small coin fee (returnable), so plan to bring spare coins or a card. There is no cloakroom beyond those lockers, so guests typically lock phones and valuables up or carry them. The foyer also has some seating and an information board for daily notices (class cancellations, water temperature, etc.).
Facilities: Inside you’ll find a split-level gym (cardio and weight areas on ground and upper level), fitness studios, and the aquatics area. The pool area includes two indoor pools (a 25m lap pool and a leisure/waterplay pool) plus a toddler pool, spa, and sauna. There is also an outdoor pool and waterslide area open in summer (roughly Dec–Mar) – check the posted schedule for exact outdoor season dates. Multiple changing rooms are provided (men’s, women’s, family/unisex) with showers and lockers; all have been recently refurbished (new flooring, tiling and air filters) for improved cleanliness (www.mstn.govt.nz ). There are accessible showers/lockers in the family changing room as well. The Centre is clean and well-maintained – one recent council news release notes that visitors have been “delighted” with the fresh look of the pools and changing rooms after a $150k refurbishment (www.mstn.govt.nz ).
Security and atmosphere: Security is typical of a public pool/stadium. On entry doors, bags are not rigorously searched (it’s an open community centre), but security cameras cover most public areas. As a family-friendly facility there is a casual, active atmosphere. Guests in swimsuits and gym wear are the norm – there is no formal dress code. The staff and lifeguards are friendly and professional. Note that like all Council venues in Masterton, the Recreation Centre is smoke- and vape-free both indoors and outdoors (www.mstn.govt.nz ); signage will be on display. Personal behavior rules follow standard pool practice: no running (especially on wet floors), no diving in shallow sections, and children must be supervised. For swim sessions, the lifeguards enforce safety rules strictly (for example, spa use is restricted to older teens and adults, typically 16 years and up).
Food and drink: There is no full-service cafe or restaurant inside the Centre. Only water fountains or vending machines (if present) are provided. You may bring your own water bottle or small snacks (fruit, energy bars) into seated areas, but full picnic meals are discouraged in the building. For quality dining, see the section on nearby eateries below. Note that there is no alcohol allowed anywhere on site, and no glass containers in the pool areas.
Amenities and extras: Free Wi-Fi is not advertised and typically not available; bring any favourite workout or entertainment devices if you need them. A small retail shelf at reception sells basic swim accessories (caps, goggles) and nutritional bars. A clean towel rental system may be offered for a small extra fee, or you can bring your own. There are no tennis courts or basketball hoops — it’s an indoor venue only. For children, there is a small observation area by the toddler pool. Overall, visitors describe the Centre as accommodating and family-oriented: one recent Tripadvisor review applauded its “great value” and fun children’s pools (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ), while another noted the popular hydroslide and lazy river (despite some slippery surfaces) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ).
Nearby Amenities
The Trust House Recreation Centre sits at the gateway of Queen Elizabeth II Park, so families have a lot at hand before or after events. Directly across Dixon Street are the park’s attractions – a famous playground, mini-golf, a model-train ride and deer enclosure (www.mstn.govt.nz ) – making QEII Park a natural place for a picnic or playtime. A key convenience is Entice Café (inside the Aratoi Museum of Art & History), literally next-door on Bruce Street (entice.co.nz ). Entice offers coffee, light meals and new bakery treats; it’s ideal for a pre-swim brunch or post-workout snack. If you prefer town atmosphere, the city centre is only a few blocks away: Queen Street (Masterton’s main strip) is just a 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk. There you’ll find numerous cafés, restaurants and bars. Recommended spots include The Union Masterton (gastropub at 7 Perry St) and The Farriers Bar & Eatery on Queen Street (both known for Kiwi-kai and local craft beer), as well as family-friendly diners like Munchies Café. Clarendon Food & Liquor (premium liquor store) is a block away on Lee Street if you need beverages.
For families and out-of-towners, several accommodation options are within easy reach. The Masterton Motor Lodge (Castlerock Road) offers 21 rooms and even a conference space – it advertises being just “three minutes by car from the town centre” (www.masterton-motorlodge.co.nz ). The large Copthorne Solway Park hotel is a short drive to the east (Park Road/High Street) and has on-site parking, pool and restaurant. Budget motels and holiday parks are sprinkled throughout northern Masterton around Dixon and Queen Streets. If you plan to stay overnight, just search “Masterton hotels” or follow signs on State Highway 2 that loop back into town via Solway Street. Regardless, you’ll never be far from an eatery or bar: Masterton is a lively town with many pubs that stay open late, ensuring guests can grab meals and evening transport easily.
What Makes This Venue Special
Apart from practical amenities, Trust House Recreation Centre has a unique community character. It’s more than a gym or pool – it’s a social hub that has been part of Masterton for decades. (Old photos from the 2000s show it operating as the Genesis Recreation Centre (digitalnz.org ).) Over the years, it has hosted countless school sports days, pool competitions and charity drives. In 2011 the facility was even voted CLM’s “Most Improved Facility” following major upgrades (www.ausleisure.com.au ). More recently, it earned national recognition: in 2022 its management team won Recreation Aotearoa’s Outstanding Pool Award for 2021, essentially naming it the best-run community pool in NZ (belgravialeisure.com.au ). This honors its bright friendly staff and innovative swim programs.
Architecturally it’s also notable for combining so many leisure features under one roof. Few venues in New Zealand offer indoor-outdoor water fun like this. For example, Destination Wairarapa (the regional tourism organisation) highlights that the centre offers “heated pools, a hydro-slide, river ride, and spa” indoors, with even a speed slide and diving pool outdoors (wairarapanz.com ). The lazy river is a rare treat that draws families to Masterton specifically. In winter, locals cite it as a key place to stay active and entertained. Beyond fun, the centre has deep cultural ties: it is sponsored by Trust House, a local community-owned trust that invests millions back into Wairarapa. The trust sees the centre as a “big-ticket project” that improves local wellbeing (trusthouse.co.nz ). (To put this in context, Wairarapa tourism was already worth NZ$149 million per year by 2022 (trusthouse.co.nz ), and centres like this help make the region attractive to visitors.)
Finally, there is a strong local tradition around the centre. Many Masterton households grew up swimming here or attending events. It serves as a gathering point – for example its pools and grounds are routinely used for school holiday programs, anaesthetic events and even graduations. Community organizations and sports clubs (netball, badminton, basketball) rely on it as their central venue. In summary, visitors appreciate the Centre not just for its clean facilities or affordable entry, but for how it connects people. As one returning customer put it, “you quickly notice the staff are smiling and the customers are happy” (belgravialeisure.com.au ). That friendly, community-focused vibe is what has made Trust House Recreation Centre stand out in the Wairarapa scene for years.
Visitor Tips and Information
Access and inclusion: The centre is designed to be very accessible. There are wide, gently sloping ramps into the indoor pools and a powered pool lift (called an “auto-weely” chair) that can lower wheelchair users into the water (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ). A poolside water-walker chair is also available for use during swims. The family changing room has an accessible shower and toilet, and there are dedicated accessible car parks right by the main doors (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ). If you have hearing or vision impairments, the staff will assist on arrival (e.g. showing you around). In short, anyone with a disability or mobility challenge should find the facility easy to use. (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz )
What to bring: Swimwear, of course! Bring your own towels, goggles and any toys or flotation devices you need (though lifejackets or puddle jumpers should be Coastguard-approved and non-slip). Non-marking water shoes are encouraged in the pools area, especially for kids. If you plan to use the gym or studio, gym clothes and sneakers are recommended. Some people bring a padlock for lockers. Most guests find cash or card handy for locker or parking fees. Note that flip-flops or bare feet are fine in the pool and changing areas, but wear dry shoes on wet tile areas.
What not to bring: Glassware, alcohol, or recreational drugs are strictly prohibited. Do not bring trampolines, balls or sharp objects into the pool. Large pool floats are not allowed except approved safety ones. The centre has rules against roughhousing or inflatable toys in the pools (for safety). Also, as a courtesy, avoid excess perfume or sunscreen in the changing rooms (these can make floors slippery).
Schedules and closures: Check online or call ahead for current timetables. The facility is open every day except Christmas Day and Good Friday. Regular hours on weekdays are ~5:30am–8pm (pools and gym) (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ), with shorter weekend hours (~8am–6pm) (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ). Note that summer outdoor pool times may vary. Major renovations are rare, but in early 2024 the centre did refurbish some pools and rooms in dribs to stay partially open (www.mstn.govt.nz ). When events are on (like competitions), parts of the facility might be reserved; check the notice boards or website for any pool closures on event days.
Age and safety rules: Children under 8 must always be within arm’s reach of a parent in the pools. Life-ring floats and noodles are provided if needed. The spa (hot jacuzzi) and steam are limited to 16+ users (Juergen’s minimum age is posted at the door). Young children should use the toddler or leisure pool areas – never the deep end of the lap pool. Showering before entering any pool is requested for hygiene. During busy times, the number of swimmers in each pool is restricted – so if one pool is closed for a class or maintenance, try the others. Locker room etiquette: Showers are often wet and crowded after busy sessions, so bring flip-flops.
Common mistakes: Don’t assume the pools are always warm – sometimes maintenance can close a spa (as noted by visitors who found the spa “cooler than usual” during work (www.tripadvisor.co.nz )). Be sure to check if the hydro-slide is running (it may be off early morning or for cleaning). Follow staff instructions for lane swimming (usually one-way, counter-clockwise). Finally, many guests find it useful to wrap long hair up and remove jewellery before swimming to avoid damage.
Insider advice: Aim to arrive at least 15–30 minutes before your swim or meetup so you have time to find a locker, change, and warm up. Early morning lap swims and early evening family swims are the most popular times. If you need help, the reception team is very helpful – they can rescue dropped items, help with showers, or even adjust chemical levels on request. If you use social media, you’ll find a friendly online community; otherwise, you’ll just notice locals greeting each other in the bathhouse like an old neighbourhood club. In short, come prepared, be courteous, and enjoy the best recreation centre in the Wairarapa!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours?
What is the address and how do I get there?
The address is 2 Dixon Street North, Masterton 5810 (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ). It’s on the north side of town, across from Queen Elizabeth Park (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ). By car, watch for signs to “Queen Elizabeth Park” – the centre’s lot is right there. Parking is free. By bus, Metlink’s route 200 covers Masterton and stops in town; from the town centre you can walk or connect to the Dixon St area (www.metlink.org.nz ). The Masterton train station is 2–3 km away, so most rail passengers take a bus or taxi to Dixon St.
How much do tickets or entry passes cost?
How do I purchase tickets or passes?
For daily swim or gym access, just come to the centre and purchase or present your pass at reception. They accept cash or card. There isn’t a separate box office – everything is handled at front desk. You can also check if an online booking system is available for swim lanes or classes on the official website. If you buy a multi-use pass or membership, you’ll usually get an ID card or app; simply show it each visit. For any ticketed special event (charity concert, children’s show etc.), tickets would be sold through the organizer’s channel, not directly by the centre.
What types of seating or viewing areas are there?
The venue is mostly open-plan sports halls. The indoor stadium has bench-style bleacher seating along the sides of the court. For aquatics, there is no fixed spectator grandstand; usually parents stand at the glass wall or sit on benches along the pool edges. Foyer and hallways have some chairs. There is no reserved “VIP” section or tiered theatre seating – it’s all general admission. Best views are along the sidelines of the playing court for sports, or poolside for swimming lanes. (For sporting events, try to sit on the skirting around the court where the majority of players can be seen.)
Is the Recreation Centre wheelchair-accessible?
Yes. The facility is fully accessible. There are ramp entries into the pool areas and an automatic pool chair lift for wheelchair users (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ). A floating water wheelchair is also kept in the pool if needed. The changing rooms include an accessible shower restroom. There are dedicated parking stalls close to the front door for disabled visitors (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ). Staff are trained to assist anyone with mobility or sensory needs. In short, a person using a wheelchair or with other disabilities should have no problem entering and using the Centre’s amenities (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ).
What safety and age rules apply to the pool and spa?
Children under 8 must be directly supervised by an adult in all pools. Lifejackets or floaties are encouraged for non-swimmers. Note that the spa and sauna (hot areas) are typically limited to persons 16 and older. The pools require proper swim attire, and lifeguards enforce safe conduct (no running, no diving in shallow areas, etc.). You are expected to shower before entering pools. Lifeguards have the final say – for example, they may close a pool lane if overcrowded or if water quality falls below standards. Always follow the posted instructions and the staff’s announcements for anyone’s safety.
Are there lockers and changing rooms?
Yes. The Centre has multiple changing rooms and shower facilities for men, women and families. Each changing room offers coin (or token) lockers to secure personal items. The lockers are sturdy and typically operated by a refundable 20c-coin. Take off valuables and lock them before entering the pool. Towels and swimwear are not rented – you must bring your own. The changing rooms have separate sections for regular and accessible use. The facility was recently refurbished, so expect clean floors and updated lockers (www.mstn.govt.nz ).
Is food or drink allowed inside?
No full meals are allowed indoors. You may bring a personal water bottle and eat light snacks (fruit, granola bars) in the seating areas, but keep all food/cups away from pool water. There is no cafeteria or kitchen inside. However, vending machines or a small kiosk may offer bottled drinks and snacks. Alcohol and glass containers are strictly forbidden anywhere on site. If you want a substantial meal or coffee, try one of the nearby cafes (for example, Entice Café next door (entice.co.nz )) before or after your visit.
What are the parking options, and is it free?
The centre provides a sizable on-site car park, and street parking surrounds it. Parking is free of charge (no pay meters) on the premises, and includes marked accessible spots near the entrance (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ). In busy times (evenings or weekends), the lot fills up, but additional parking is available a short walk away in Queen Elizabeth Park. Large vehicles and trailers have extra space at the rear of the lot. Rideshare drop-off/pickup can use the front driveway. Note: The Civic Center was recently enhanced with new pavement and signage, but it is still Council-run free parking.
Which public transport can I use to reach the Centre?
Public buses in Masterton run along Queen Street and then through Church Street. The nearest stops are on Dixon Street or at the town square (a short walk). Metlink’s Wairarapa route 200 serves Masterton, Carterton and surrounding towns (www.metlink.org.nz ). If you take the #200, get off near the Masterton Town Hall or Queen Street and it’s about a 10-minute walk to the Centre. Masterton does not have a subway or light rail – the regional train stops at Masterton station (in town), and from there you’d take a bus or taxi to Dixon Street North. For late-night returns, local taxi services or rideshares towards central Masterton are the safest bet.
Are swim lessons or group classes offered here?
Yes. The centre runs a Swim Tangaroa learn-to-swim program for all ages and levels – it’s actually award-winning (www.trusthouserecreationcentre.co.nz ). You can sign up for classes in infancy through advanced levels. They also offer adult learn-to-swim and water safety courses. On the fitness side, there are regular timetabled group fitness classes (yoga, spin, aerobics, aquafit, etc.). Check the posted schedule; many classes are included in entry or membership, while some have a small extra fee. Coaches and personal trainers are also available for private sessions if arranged in advance.
What should I bring to my visit?
Bring your own swimwear, towel and a change of dry clothes. Flip-flops or non-slip sandals are useful for the pool deck. Goggles, swim caps or flotation devices (if needed) should be yours; the Centre sells basic caps/goggles at reception if you forget. For the gym, wear fitness attire and shoes. Don’t forget any membership card or proof if you have one (although they should have it on file by name). Cash or card is needed for locker tokens or incidentals. Sunscreen is wise for outdoor pools. In general, pack like you would for a sports or swim outing – nothing fancy required.
Is the Centre family-friendly for kids?
Absolutely. Trust House Recreation Centre is very popular with families. It has a dedicated toddlers’ pool, children’s leisure pool with a lazy river, and kids’ water slide. Outside, the Queen Elizabeth Park playground and activities (mini-golf, train ride) mean you can make it a full family outing. Changing rooms include family stalls and all-ages showers. In fact, the venue often runs family-oriented events (e.g. the free Family Fun Day for kids (events.humanitix.com )). Just remember the child-safety rules: always supervise your child in the water and adhere to the lifeguards’ instructions. Otherwise, kids are well catered to here.
What is the difference between this centre and the Wairarapa Trust House Netball Centre?
Though both have 'Trust House' in their name, they are separate venues. The Trust House Recreation Centre (this venue) is the leisure complex on Dixon Street North with pools and stadium. The Wairarapa Trust House Netball Centre is a dedicated indoor netball facility (with 12 courts) located on Colombo Road in Masterton. So if you're looking for netball competitions or court hire, go to the Netball Centre; for swimming, general sports or gym, come to the Recreation Centre.
Why is it called "Trust House" Recreation Centre?
"Trust House" refers to the local community trust that sponsors the centre. Trust House is a community-based organisation that invests in local projects around Wairarapa. They hold the naming rights to the venue (much like a corporate sponsor). The trust’s support underscores the centre’s role in community health and recreation. Previously the centre was named for other sponsors (such as Genesis Energy) but now bears the Trust House name to honor that funding partnership.
Have any famous events or awards happened here?
In recent years, the centre has gained recognition. Notably, in 2022 it won the Outstanding Pool Award (2021) from Recreation Aotearoa – essentially naming it the best-run public pool in New Zealand (belgravialeisure.com.au ). Locally, a Wairarapa Times-Age report mentioned a major upgrade that led to superb performance improvements. Community-wise, the Centre routinely hosts high-profile local events: for example, charity fundraisers like World Refugee Day 2025 (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) and White Ribbon Day 2023 (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) have taken place here, cementing its place in Masterton’s cultural calendar.
