Tāneatua residents must boil their drinking water immediately until Tuesday morning, 2 December.
Why has this notice been issued?
The water treatment process isn't working properly while the Council upgrades the treatment plant. This means the water supply cannot be guaranteed as safe to drink without boiling.
What do I need to do?
You must boil all water before using it for:
- Drinking
- Making baby formula
- Making juice or ice cubes
- Washing fruit and vegetables
- Food preparation and cooking
- Brushing teeth
How do I boil water safely?
- Bring water to a rolling boil (where bubbles appear in the centre and don't disappear when stirred) for at least two minutes, OR boil a full electric jug until it automatically switches off
- Let the water cool down (do not use ice cubes to cool it)
- Pour the cooled water into a clean container with a lid
- Keep refrigerated until needed
Boiling kills all disease-causing organisms and makes the water safe to use.
When will the notice be lifted?
The boil water notice will remain in place until Tuesday morning, 2 December 2025. Council will advise residents when it is safe to use water without boiling.
What about other water uses?
You can use unboiled tap water for:
- Showering and bathing (avoid swallowing water)
- Washing dishes in a dishwasher (if it has a hot rinse cycle)
- Washing clothes
- Flushing toilets
- Watering gardens
Health information
If you develop diarrhoea, vomiting and/or a fever, contact your doctor or call Healthline on 0800 611 116.
Look out for others
Please check on your neighbours, older family members, and vulnerable people in your community to ensure they know about the boil water notice and have access to safe drinking water.
Why is the Council doing this work?
Council is replacing aging water treatment equipment to ensure a reliable, safe water supply for Tāneatua into the future.
Need more information?
Contact Whakatāne District Council:
Phone: 07 306 0500
Last updated: Friday, 28 November 2025 11.40am