There were four reported thefts at the new QEII complex on opening weekend.

A string of thefts have marred the opening weekend at Christchurch's new $38.6 million QEII swimming complex.

A police spokeswoman said there were four thefts reported at the Christchurch City Council-owned pool, which was at capacity over the long weekend, between Friday afternoon and Saturday afternoon. Cellphones, wallets and bags were taken.

Council recreation and sports unit operations manager Nigel Cox said the thefts were "really disappointing". The council was working with police and using security camera footage to identify those involved.

There were 30 secure, paid lockers available at the complex, he said. Recreation and sports centre staff were also able to store valuables behind the front desk.

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STACY SQUIRES/STUFF Thousands of people have visited the new complex since it opened on Thursday, with the pools often at the maximum capacity of 450 people.

A wet, long weekend saw the new pool facility hit maximum capacity of 450 people on more than one occasion, with some swimmers waiting up to 45 minutes to get into the pool. Staff had to implement a one in, one out policy to manage demand.

It was estimated more than 14,000 people had visited the facility by the end of Sunday. The pool opened for the first time on Thursday at 6pm.

Cox said there had been minimal teething problems at the facility. One of the smaller pools was closed for about 20 minutes on Saturday while the chlorine level was adjusted.

The 5500-square-metre facility features a 130-metre long hydroslide, a 25-metre lap pool, a leisure pool with a lazy river channel and water toys, an adventure playground, a learn-to-swim pool, a hydrotherapy pool, a spa, a steam room, and a sauna. It also has a fitness centre and a cafe. The 25-metre pool has a movable floor, which can be raised and lowered.

The facility replaces the much-loved former QEII complex, which was demolished following the February 2011 earthquake.