Is Invercargill Tap Water Safe To Drink?
Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.
Tap water in Invercargill, New Zealand, is treated and monitored by the Invercargill City Council. It meets New Zealand Drinking Water Standards.
The water source is primarily groundwater, which typically has low contamination risk. Regular testing ensures contaminants remain below health guideline limits.
The water is generally considered safe to drink without boiling or additional treatment for most residents, barring specific advisories or incidents.
Last checked: 2025-10-04
Source of Water in Invercargill, New Zealand
Invercargill's tap water mainly comes from groundwater sources accessed through bores. These aquifers provide a consistent and reliable water supply.
Surface water sources, such as local rivers or reservoirs, are generally not the primary supply but may supplement during specific conditions.
Groundwater quality is naturally protected by surrounding geology, reducing contamination risks and requiring minimal treatment before distribution to residents.
Invercargill Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Invercargill generally use treated municipal water, meeting New Zealand Drinking Water Standards, making the water itself safe to drink.
However, cleanliness and maintenance of fountains vary, affecting hygiene. Regular cleaning is important to prevent microbial contamination on surfaces.
Users should consider fountain condition before use; if well-maintained, public fountains provide a safe drinking water option in Invercargill.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Invercargill. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.
Nearby Places
- Oban
(57 km)
- Dunedin
(175 km)
- Christchurch
(463 km)
- Kaikoura
(612 km)
- Wellington
(766 km)
- Napier City
(1035 km)
About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.
I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.
Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.