Wai inu ora

Safe drinking water

Keep your tank water safe

If you get your water from a rainwater tank, spring or bore - there's steps you can take to make sure your water is safe, clean and clear.

An untreated water supply can be contaminated with chemicals, bacteria and other organisms.

These contaminants can cause unpleasant tastes, odours and some can cause serious illness.

Tips for a safe water supply

Clean your water tank

When the water in your tank is low - it's a good time to clean it out.

If you're planning to have the tank refilled without cleaning it - be aware that adding delivered water to a dirty tank can stir up any sludge, and make your water cloudy and taste unpleasant.

Sludge often contains high levels of bacteria and contaminants and will clog any filters.

Leaves, dead birds and animal droppings can be washed down the spouting and into your tank, making it unsafe to drink.

If you need to refill your tank, make sure you use a registered water carrier.

We can tell you if a water carrier is registered, or ask the carrier before ordering the water.

Registered carriers are required to leave a delivery docket with each load of water. This details the source and quality of the delivered water.

If you use filters or other point-of-use devices to clean your water, check when these are due for replacement or servicing. If you don't currently use any of these devices, now's a good time to consider the treatment options available.

More information