Water NZ calls for swift action on inquiry report

Water NZ chief executive John Pfahlert congratulated the inquiry panel for identifying the important issues around New Zealand's drinking water management regime. PHOTO/FILE

Water New Zealand is urging the Government to implement the recommendations of the Havelock North drinking water inquiry without delay.

A national not-for-profit organisation, Water New Zealand promotes the sustainable management and development of New Zealand's three waters (freshwater, wastewater and storm water).

Chief executive John Pfahlert said that while many councils did a good job providing safe drinking water, the inquiry had clearly identified systemic problems in the regulation and supply of safe drinking water, and the need for major reform.

Unless there were significant changes to the way drinking water was regulated, there was a serious risk of another contamination outbreak on the scale of Havelock North, he warned.

"This report provides a blue print for the Government to move forward to ensure that our drinking water meets the needs of what New Zealanders and visitors should expect from a modern 21st century developed world water supply."

In particular, he said the report highlighted an urgent need for an independent water regulator be established with the power and ability to enforce drinking water standards, and recommended that all public water supplies have mandatory treatment of drinking water, including the use of a residual disinfectant.

The report identified a lack of competence and training in the sector, and called for this to made mandatory, something Water New Zealand was already acting on, Mr Pfahlert said.

"We simply cannot afford to have another water contamination event such as occurred in Havelock North. The outbreak resulted in many unnecessary cases of illness including loss of life, which has been tragic for those affected and their families. It has also tarnished our international reputation. Experts from around the world are now watching very closely to see how we respond to these findings.

"The inquiry has addressed all the key issues that have been concerning many in the sector for some time.

"It has produced a very thorough and well considered report. The inquiry asked the right questions and has come up with the right answers. We would urge that the Government implement the recommendations without delay because, if it does not, there is a serious risk of another similar contamination outbreak."