Changes to Acceptable Solutions coming soon
We recently consulted on proposed changesoutbound to Acceptable Solutions and we expect to publish the final Acceptable Solutions in late August. Ahead of this, here’s a short explainer video outlining simple end-point treatment options for use in homes and properties in rural communities across New Zealand.
Information on current Acceptable Solutions
Drinking water suppliers have options to meet their responsibility to provide the communities they serve with safe drinking water.
One option is to follow the Drinking Water Quality Assurance Rules. Following an Acceptable Solution is another option for some supplies that:
- use roof water
- collect water from springs or bores
- provide water for people to drink as well as for agricultural use. (These supplies are often called ‘mixed-use rural supplies’).
Supplies are classified as 'mixed-use rural' if at least 50% of water supplied is for farm use (e.g. irrigation or stock water) and up to 50% is used as drinking water by people who live in the area.
If you choose to use an Acceptable Solution, you:
| Do need to | Don’t need to |
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Clarifications
A few suppliers have asked us who holds specific responsibilities under an Acceptable Solution. In February 2025, we published a policy statement and flowchart to help clarify this.
We’ve also begun a project to improve our Acceptable Solutions. Our aim is to help save drinking water suppliers time and effort, without compromising safety for communities. More information will be available in 2025.
See further clarifications on other aspects of the Acceptable Solutions.