At the Ministry of Health’s direction, Tauranga City's water supply has been fluoridated since October 2024. In response to community interest, the Council asked staff to explore accessible and affordable alternatives for those who prefer non-fluoridated water.
Following investigations, an option was identified to install onsite water treatment systems at selected bore supply points within Tauranga City Council reserves. The water in these taps is not processed through the city's water treatment plants. Instead, these systems use cartridge filters and UV light to treat the water. No additional fluoride beyond natural background levels has been added at these community taps.
Mayor Mahé Drysdale says he’s pleased the people of Tauranga now have access to an alternative water source, after the Director-General of Health gave the green light to install three supply points in the city. “Our Council heard concerns from locals about central government’s directive to add fluoride, so it’s pleasing we’re able to offer people more choice," says Mahé.
Nic Johansson, General Manager: Infrastructure, says residents can collect water from the new community tap in Pāpāmoa using their own clean containers. “While we can’t guarantee the quality of the water after it has left the tap, we encourage those who choose this option to handle and store it responsibly,” says Nic.
Two additional non-fluoridated community taps are proposed for Wharepai Domain in the city centre and Waipuna Park in Welcome Bay, pending further water quality sampling. The dates when these taps will be ready to use have yet to be confirmed.
For more information, visit: www.tauranga.govt.nz/fluoride