Water Services Authority releases position on downstream drinking water suppliers

The Water Services Authority – Taumata Arowai (the Authority) is taking steps to improve clarity for drinking water suppliers by releasing a policy position on when a downstream supply exists and clarifying what responsibilities apply. This work follows engagement with the sector last year.

The Water Services Act 2021 does not clearly define downstream supplies. This has created uncertainty for suppliers, inconsistent decision-making and, in some cases, unnecessary compliance costs.

To address this, the Authority has developed a new Downstream Supplies Policy Statement to help suppliers identify when they are part of a downstream supply arrangement.

The policy statement focuses on public health protection and is designed to support more consistent and proportionate regulatory decisions across the sector. It ensures risks are appropriately identified and managed, while avoiding unnecessary compliance costs for low-risk situations.