In their annual funding round Trust Waikato has made a donation of $130,000 to The Hamilton Hydrotherapy Pool Charitable Trust as a contribution towards the construction of a purpose-built hydrotherapy pool in Hamilton.

The Hydrotherapy Pool to be built at Waterworld in 2011/12, or before if the funds are raised earlier will be operated as a community facility which promotes wellness, and is available for the public of Hamilton and those around the Waikato for rehabilitation, exercise and enjoyment. It will be Hamilton's only truly accessible pool with specially fitted out disability changing rooms and the means to enter and exit the pool safely. Health professionals will use the pool to treat their patients, personal trainers to rehabilitate sportspeople after injuries but it is most important that individuals and groups of people have the freedom to use the pool for prevention of ill health, for maintenance after they have been discharged from treatment and for recreation and social interaction.

It is the Hydro Trust's view that people with disabilities continue to be largely hidden in our community as many fear the thought of being seen as 'different' in such a vulnerable atmosphere as a swimming pool. With this facility 'difference' will be normal'.