Drinking Water

Horizons has a responsibility under the Resource Management Act (1991), including the National Environmental Standards for Sources of Human Drinking Water (NES-DW), and the Water Services Act (2021), to ensure drinking water source water is safe. Territorial Authorities (district and city councils) and drinking water suppliers also have responsibilities to provide consumers with safe drinking water.

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Taumata Arowai resources

The water services authority, Taumata Arowai, is the regulator of water services in New Zealand. They work with, regulate, and influence the water services sector to improve outcomes for the health of water, people, and the environment.

Taumata Arowai has some useful resources for drinking water suppliers and the public.

Horizons has undertaken work to ensure we meet our requirements regarding the protection of drinking water quality. We commissioned Pattle Delamore Partners Ltd to complete a stocktake of water supplies in the Horizons Region and prioritise actions to minimise the risk of contamination. These reports are available below.

Pattle Delamore Partners reports

Community Drinking Water Supply Assessment in Horizons Region - 2018-19 Compliance Period
PDF | 4.81MB
Community Drinking Water Supply Assessment in Horizons Region - 2019-20 Compliance Period
PDF | 2.83MB
Source water risk management area recommendations
PDF | 1.33MB

Resources for well owners

How safe is my well water?
PDF | 1.36MB
Guidelines for well owners
PDF | 4.89MB

Contact us

Reach out for information about drinking water source water and drinking water takes