Water New Zealand says Taumata Arowai’s drinking water quality reports released today show that many communities continue to be supplied with unsafe drinking water.
Technical lead - projects and sustainability, Lesley Smith says the water services regulator's findings are a clear indication that many suppliers are still struggling to supply safe drinking water and meet water quality regulations.
The Taumata Arowai reports reveal that last year up to 489,000 people received drinking water from councils where there was inadequate protozoa protection and up to 25,000 people received water that lacked a bacteria barrier.
Water New Zealand members have known for a long time that too many councils are struggling to meet safe water quality standards and that there is an urgent need for more capacity in the sector.
These reports are important to build up a comprehensive picture of the entire water system and to focus on areas where there is a need for further attention.
See the reports
Drinking Water Regulation Report 2023