Exemption Process for Drinking Water Suppliers Under Scrutiny
The Taumata Arowai, New Zealand’s water services regulator, is reviewing exemption applications from residual disinfection requirements. Before making a decision, the regulator will consult with stakeholders and provide transparency around its process.
Decision-Making Process
- The regulator will publish decisions and reasons for exemptions on its website.
- Any conditions attached to the exemption will also be made public in accordance with legislative requirements.
Expert Advisory Panel
The Taumata Arowai has established an external advisory panel of international experts to provide independent technical advice on residual disinfection exemption applications. The panel’s role will be proportionate to the scale, complexity, and risk associated with each supply.
Decision-Making Support
In addition to seeking advice from the expert panel, the regulator may also seek input from its staff or other sources as needed to support its decision-making process.
Focus Areas for Next Three Years
The Taumata Arowai has identified several key focus areas for the next three years:
Regulatory System and Expectations
- Providing guidance to drinking water suppliers on how to give effect to Te Mana o te Wai, a new obligation under the Water Services Act 2021.
Supplier Guidance and Information
- Publishing guidance material and information to support suppliers in meeting their statutory obligations.
Marae/Papakāinga Engagement
- Recognizing obligations to mana whenua and engaging directly with marae and kāinga to understand specific circumstances and needs.
The regulator’s focus areas for the next three years also include:
- Giving effect to Te Mana o te Wai
- Producing source water risk management guidance
- Engaging with the Ministry for the Environment
- Developing drinking water network environmental performance measures
- Building understanding of Te Mana o te Wai through internal and external engagements