Drinking water quality

Drinking water is the term we use for the water we supply through your taps. In the Auckland region it is safe for drinking and cooking, and for all the other uses around the home – cleaning the dishes, taking showers, washing the laundry, flushing the toilet, watering the garden.

Fluoride

Fluoride is a natural element found in air, soil, fresh water, seawater, plants and lots of foods. Adding fluoride to public water supplies is a proven health measure to reduce tooth decay and strengthen teeth.

At the request of our customers, we add fluoride to the metropolitan supply. Currently, the Huia Village districts are exceptions to that rule.

The amount of fluoride the Ministry of Health recommends is between 0.7 and 1.0 parts per million in drinking water. Learn more: Ministry of Health

27 July 2022 - Auckland Council directed to fluoridate Onehunga, Waiuku water supplies
We have been directed by the Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield to install fluoride dosing systems at our Onehunga Water Treatment Plant by 30 June 2024. By 30 June 2026, we are required to upgrade our three Waiuku plants and fluoridate the community’s water supply. To read more about this decision, click here.
 

Chlorine

During the treatment process, chlorine is added to kill any harmful bacteria. Chlorine evaporates quickly and has been used effectively around the world for over 100 years.
 

Lime

Lime is added to protect the water supply pipes from corrosion.

Water in New Zealand is comparatively soft. It is generally low in the minerals and salts that make water hard.

This is also true of water in the Auckland region. Our metropolitan treatment plants draw water mainly from surface water sources. These are low in calcium and salts compared to groundwater, which picks up minerals as it makes its way into waterways.

Hard water is difficult to lather with soap or shampoo, it builds up scale deposits on water-using appliances, and leaves residue on bathtubs and showers.

Flushing the drinking water tap removes lead and other heavy metals that may enter your drinking water from your private plumbing. Learn more: Flush your pipes

If you have any concerns about the quality of water we supply, such as a change in clarity, taste or smell, please phone (09) 442 2222, press 1.

We will investigate and if necessary test it to find the cause.