A safe supply of drinking water is an essential requirement for health. But when the water we use for drinking, swimming or other uses is contaminated, or when it becomes scarce, it can pose a risk to our health and wellbeing.
Public health services work with the Ministry of Health to formulate policy for achieving safe drinking-water supplies and effective sanitation in New Zealand.
In the Northern region, public health also supports and advises our local and district councils, to ensure water supplies, sewerage systems and recreational swimming spots are safe for the public.
For queries relating to water supply and waste water please contact your relevant local or district council.
Drinking water guidance for schools and early learning services is available from the Ministry of Education.
In Northland - Te Tai Tokerau contact:
In Auckland - Tāmaki Makaurau contact:
For up-to-date guidance on the safety and quality of recreational swimming spots across our region visit SafeSwim.
If you become unwell after swimming somewhere listed as not safe by Safeswim call Healthline for advice on 0800 61 11 16, or seek medical attention from your doctor.
Taumata Arowai is the water services regulator for Aotearoa New Zealand. It sets standards and makes sure that drinking water suppliers are satisfying their duty to provide safe drinking water. It also monitors and reports on the environmental performance of wastewater and stormwater networks.
Last updated 26.3.2024