Is Wellington Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Tap water in Wellington, NZ is generally safe to drink, sourced mainly from protected reservoirs and treated to meet New Zealand drinking water standards.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Water quality is regularly monitored by Wellington Water, ensuring compliance with microbiological and chemical safety limits set by the Ministry of Health.

Occasional boil water notices may occur after heavy rain or maintenance, but under normal conditions, Wellington’s tap water is safe and potable.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

New Zealand is ranked as number 31 globally with a score of 84.8% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Wellington, New Zealand

Wellington’s tap water primarily comes from the Hutt and Wainuiomata catchments, which are protected forested areas providing high-quality raw water.

Additional supply comes from the Waiwhetu groundwater aquifer, accessed via bores, supplementing surface water sources especially during dry periods.

These sources undergo treatment including filtration and chlorination to ensure safe drinking water for Wellington residents.

Wellington Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Wellington, NZ are generally safe to use and supplied with treated tap water meeting health standards.

Regular maintenance and water quality monitoring help ensure fountains remain hygienic and safe for public use.

Users should avoid fountains after heavy rainfall or known water quality alerts until official clearance is given.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Wellington. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

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.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Wellington is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.