Whakatane majority votes for fluoridation

The final results for the fluoridation referendum have been released

The final results for the fluoridation referendum have been released for the Whakatane district showing a convincing majority in each community were also in favour of it.

About 60 per cent of voters in Whakatane wanted fluoride to be retained in their water supplies. The general community boards also wanted it included in their water system, according to the latest breakdown of results.

The Rangitaiki electorate was in favour by 1345 to 941 votes, Taneatua 252 to 214, Ohope 945 to 394 and Murupara-Galatea-Waiohau ward 103-77.

However this was in contrast to the voting in the Maori Kohi electorate with the majority objecting to fluoride.

Rangitaiki voted against 310 to 236, Taneatua 236 to 144, Murupara 140 to 37 and Whakatane nearly evenly split at 275 to 279.

Fluoridation had the backing of Bay of Plenty medical officer of health Dr Neil de Wet, who said it was important to include fluoridation in water as it was a child's right to have the best that society could provide for good health, including good teeth.