Exposure to lead remains one of the world’s most widespread yet preventable health threats, affecting millions of children and adults. In Aotearoa New Zealand, one of the key exposure routes is through lead in drinking water pipes.

Water New Zealand’s technical lead for drinking water quality, Dr Belinda Cridge, says children face the greatest risks.

“Lead exposure is particularly harmful to developing brains — it can affect learning, behaviour and long-term health,” she says.

This year’s International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (19–25 October) urges governments and communities to take all steps to prevent lead exposure.

Dr Cridge says that while new restrictions on lead in taps coming into effect in May 2026 are a big step forward, many people will continue to be at risk from taps and pipes that have already been installed.

She says Aotearoa New Zealand’s source waters are typically slightly acidic with low alkalinity, making them more corrosive and more likely to leach metals such as lead, copper, and nickel.

“Water that has been sitting in taps or pipe fittings overnight can become more exposed to lead.

“That’s why we strongly recommend that everybody runs their taps briefly (enough to fill a standard cup) in the morning before pouring a glass of water or filling the kettle.

“Schools and early childhood centres also pose a particular risk and it’s very important that taps are flushed each morning before children drink water.

“Replacing old tapware with certified low-lead fixtures can also make a major difference.”

Health risks to children

Lead is a potent neurotoxin. In children, it can cause reduced IQ, learning and behavioural difficulties, while in adults it’s linked to hypertension, kidney damage, and cognitive decline.

Pregnant women exposed to lead face risks including premature birth and developmental impacts on the foetus.

A multi decade Dunedin study which traced children exposed to lead found childhood lead exposure could also have long term consequences for adult mental health and difficult personality traits.

Educating communities

Water professionals have a key role in educating communities, promoting compliance, and advocating for proactive lead management.

“Understanding plumbosolvency is essential for keeping our water safe,” says Dr Cridge.

“As new standards take effect, we need to promote certified lead-free tapware and raise awareness about detecting non-compliant products.”

To support this, Water New Zealand offers a digital badge on plumbosolvency — part of its growing suite of training tools aimed at protecting public health and maintaining trust in drinking water.

© Scoop Media