The Y-Fitness Centre at the Tepid Baths will be moving to a new purpose-built fitness facility on Albert St within the ANZ Centre from Monday, 8 February 2010.

The new site, which will be named Y-Fitness Albert Street, is a fresh and modern venue offering state-of-the-art changing facilities, as well as a group exercise studio, where the YMCA will launch the latest craze 'Zumba®' classes.

Located only a few minutes' walk from Tepid Baths, it will provide a convenient new location for the Y-Fitness staff and members, many of whom already work in close vicinity or within the ANZ Tower.

The move follows the decision from Auckland City Council to temporarily close the Tepid Baths due to the significant structural issues facing the 95 year-old building.

Councillor Greg Moyle, chairperson of the Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee says "When the closure was announced in November, the wellbeing of staff as well as relocation of existing members was highlighted as a priority. I'm pleased that the YMCA have been able to secure a new home for the fitness centre so quickly, minimising disruption for users. The focus will now remain looking at options for an alternative CBD pool venue."

John Fairhurst, YMCA Auckland chief executive, says the YMCA has been committed to providing alternative options for users. "We are delighted to have found a suitable fitness centre venue located so closely to the Tepid Baths. It is an exciting opportunity for the Y and we will continue to provide our first class service at the new facility".

The initial closure date for the Tepid Baths was mid May 2010, however the council and YMCA have decided to bring this forward to the end of the term one school holidays, on Sunday 18 April 2010.

Mr Moyle says it makes sense operationally to coincide the closure of the pools with the school term holidays, as this is when major pool hirers and the swim school also break.

"The swim school makes up a large proportion of total pool usage and it's just not feasible to start programmes for only a few weeks in term two," he says.

The council has set aside $12 million to address the structural issues. Planning has already commenced for the redevelopment and the council will be doing all it can to reopen the Tepid Baths as soon as is possible.