“It highlights the on-going need to achieve excellence in managing our water quality and in the dedication of local water operators who must work around the clock to ensure safe and reliable drinking water services for our community.”
The finalist sample was taken from the fluoridated Central water network, supplied by the Karamu-Tākinga Springs at the base of Tihi-o-Tonga off Great West Road and serving around 50,000 residents. The same supply also produced the 2024 national winning sample.
Rotorua is a finalist this year alongside Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Manawatū District Council, and Napier City Council, all in the running for the 2026 title.
The four finalists will face judging today, with the overall winner to be announced at the WIOG awards dinner this evening.
Samples are assessed through a blind taste test using the internationally recognised Water Tasting Wheel, which evaluates attributes including colour, clarity, aroma and taste.
The successful council will earn national bragging rights as the supplier of New Zealand’s best-tasting tap water for the next 12 months. They will also go on to represent New Zealand in the trans-Tasman final, competing against Australia’s reigning champion from Katherine in the Northern Territory.
Rotorua Lakes Council will also proudly host conference attendees on tours of the Karamu–Tākinga Water Treatment Plant and the Rotorua Wastewater Treatment Plant.
