If your willing to put in the effort they can be done.
The base is critical don't skimp, especially if your in a area that has freeze/thaw.
I built mine above ground using bricks and a concrete shell. A cement additive was used to reduce water content in the mix to prevent cracking, mainly because I was pouring in 30+ degC.
A rubber sealant called Clearpond Pondseal was then used as a final water barrier and stop any lime leaching into the pond.
If it ever does leak, drain, clean spot and seal again with the sealant.