Drinking-water Standards for New Zealand 2005 (Revised 2018). Country/Territory New Zealand Document type Miscellaneous Date 2002 (2018) Source FAO, FAOLEX Subject Water Keyword Public health Water supply Potable water Water quality standards Authorization/permit Geographical area Asia and the Pacific, Australia and New Zealand, Oceania, South Pacific Entry into force notes These Regulations enter into force 6 months after the date of their notification in the Gazette. Abstract The availability of potable drinking-water for all New Zealanders is a fundamental requirement for public health. There are six well-established principles for potable drinking water: 1. A high standard of care must be embraced; 2. Protection of source water is of paramount importance; 3. Maintain multiple barriers against contamination; 4. Change precedes contamination; 5. Suppliers must own the safety of drinking water; 6. Apply a preventive risk management approach. The Health Act 1956 protects the health and safety of people and communities by promoting adequate supplies of potable and wholesome drinking water from all drinking-water supplies. It provides for the Minister to issue or adopt drinking-water standards; and imposes a range of duties on drinking-water suppliers, including duties to monitor drinking water; and take all practicable steps to comply with the Drinking-Water Standards for New Zealand (DWSNZ). Full text English Website health.govt.nz