Waimate’s water is excellent

Despite NZ Tomorrow claiming the Waimate’s water was f’d, Greenpeace has since rated the Waimate town supply “excellent”.

While the show doesn’t claim to be hard news, the comments have created confusion.

Waimate’s a small town at the heart of Waimate District. The perception appears to be that the water in town isn’t safe to drink. For a small town, that needs new residents and visitors to help grow its economy, perception matters.

So, as projects like the Waimate Trail get underway and more people are drawn here, it’s worth being clear about what’s fact, what’s not, and what people can do if they have concerns about their own water supply.

Town, district, and everything in between

Waimate District stretches from the Pareora River in the north to the Waitaki River in the south, and inland to the foothills in the west.

Waimate is the district’s largest settlement, surrounded by farms and smaller rural communities.

Not everyone is on the same water supply. Waimate town has a reticulated town supply, while many rural properties rely on separate schemes or private bores.

That distinction matters when talking about water quality.

Waimate’s town water is excellent

Greenpeace visited Waimate in November 2025, inviting locals to bring in water samples for testing.

At least one sample from the town supply recorded a zero reading, with the average sitting at 0.07 mg/L - well below nitrate levels linked to any known adverse health effects and resulted in the ‘excellent’ rating.

Unfortunately samples from private bores, outside of the town, showed a range of results with some exceeding the recommended safety levels.

The key thing is clarity. Waimate District has a number of different water schemes. The town supply is excellent, but readings can vary across other schemes in the district.

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A zero reading from the town supply.

Worried about nitrates? Here’s what you can do

If you live outside the town supply - on a rural scheme or a private bore - checking nitrate levels can be a sensible step. Here are some options:

• Contact Waimate District Council
  The council can point you in the right direction, explain your supply type, and advise on testing options.

• Get your water tested
  Water samples can be tested through accredited laboratories. This usually involves collecting a sample and sending it away for analysis. Results will tell you whether nitrate levels are within recommended limits.

• Talk to a water treatment specialist
  If nitrate levels are high, you could look into a filtration or treatment system. A local plumber or water treatment provider can advise on what’s suitable for your supply.

• Seek health advice if you’re unsure
  Your GP or midwife can provide guidance if you’re concerned about nitrate exposure, particularly for infants or during pregnancy.