Clean drinking water is essential to a healthy home, but older tapware can sometimes leach lead into your supply. With health authorities recognising the risks of lead exposure, even in small amounts, New Zealand’s building code is evolving — and your home’s tapware may need to follow suit.
From September 2025, New Zealand will implement stricter limits on allowable lead levels in plumbing products that come into contact with drinking water. This change, introduced via an update to the Building Code, reduces the permitted lead content in tapware and fittings containing copper alloy from 4.5 percent to just 0.25 percent.
While this update applies to new installations, it also serves as a strong incentive for homeowners to assess the safety of their existing fixtures. Taps manufactured before the new standard was announced in 2022 may still function well, but many contain elevated lead levels that can leach into your drinking water over time.
The Health Risks of Lead
Lead is a toxic heavy metal with no safe exposure level. Especially dangerous for pregnant women and children, lead exposure has a toxic effect on developing embryos, and can impact neurological development, reduce IQ, and contribute to behavioural issues in infants and young children. In adults, long-term exposure can affect kidney function and cardiovascular health.
While New Zealand’s water supply itself is generally safe, the tapware and fittings in your home can still be a source of contamination, especially if they’re aging or made from outdated materials. In fact, elevated lead levels have been detected in several homes around the country, prompting health authorities to urge consumers to check their plumbing.
At Newtech, all tapware is WaterMark certified and fully compliant with both current and upcoming New Zealand regulations. Designed with upcoming regulations in mind, Newtech’s tapware offers peace of mind for homeowners and builders seeking safe, compliant fixtures.
Whether you’re installing a new bathroom or upgrading an older space, there’s no need to worry about lead content when choosing Newtech. Every product in the Evoke tapware collection meets strict safety requirements for drinking water contact and is manufactured from high-quality 304 stainless steel and low-lead brass.
Why Upgrade Now?
While it’s not yet mandatory to replace older tapware, doing so is a proactive way to safeguard your household’s health. An upgrade can also improve water efficiency, introduce more hygienic features, and elevate the overall look of your bathroom.
Choosing WaterMark certified, low-lead tapware is a small change that can make a lasting difference — especially for families with young children or those renovating older homes.
Tap Into Long-Term Confidence
Lead safety is no longer optional; it’s becoming standard. Make sure your tapware is future-ready. Browse Newtech’s Evoke range of tapware here, or contact the team at sales@newtech.co.nz or on 0800 728 662 for advice on compliant options that blend safety, style, and performance.
