Taumata Arowai

Safe drinking water for all New Zealanders and visitors to our shores is a reasonable expectation and high-performing drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services are essential for the protection of public health, and the health of the environment.

Recognising this importance, in September 2019, the New Zealand Government agreed to create a new water services regulator to administer and enforce a new drinking water regulatory system, while contributing to improved environmental outcomes from wastewater and stormwater networks.

Taumata Arowai was established as a Crown entity in March 2021 and became New Zealand’s dedicated regulator of drinking water, when the Water Services Act came into effect on 15 November 2021. In 2024, it will assume responsibility for wastewater and stormwater networks, becoming the three waters regulator for Aotearoa.

Regulations for drinking water suppliers

Visit the Taumata Arowai website