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Master Plumbers Recommended: Proudly Lead Free

Safer made simple

From 1 May 2026, all new taps, mixers, valves and other plumbing products for drinking water must meet New Zealand’s updated lead free standards.

How the 'Proudly Lead Free' mark helps

Right now, there’s no regulated labelling system to show which products truly comply. That means some items could still claim to be lead free without proper independent testing.

That’s where the Master Plumbers Recommended 'Proudly Lead Free' mark comes in. Just like choosing a Master Plumber gives you peace of mind about the job, this mark gives you peace of mind about the products going into your home.

Checked and verified

Products showing the ‘Proudly Lead Free’ mark have already been assessed against the WaterMark AS/NZS 4020 standard and independently verified. Which means you don’t need to check codes or fine print yourself — just look for the mark.

Look for ‘Proudly Lead Free’ marked products — peace of mind made simple.

FAQ

What does 'Proudly Lead Free' mean?

It means the product has been independently tested and certified under the WaterMark AS/NZS 4020 standard. This confirms it meets the 0.25% maximum allowable lead content now required by New Zealand’s new regulations for safer drinking water (also called potable water).

Why are these changes happening now?

The Government has introduced new limits on the amount of lead allowed in plumbing products that carry drinking water, following updates to the Building Code in 2022.

Over time, small amounts of lead can leach out of taps, mixers and fittings. When we drink that water, it can build up in our bodies and affect our health. The new lower limit is designed to reduce this risk and make sure future products are safer for Kiwi households.

You can read more about the health effects — and what we’re doing about them — in our Advocacy Action Plan.

Do I need to replace my existing taps or plumbing?

No. The new rules apply to products being sold and installed from 1 May 2026. You don’t have to remove or replace what you already own, unless you choose to upgrade.

How do I know if a product is compliant?

Look for the Master Plumbers Recommended (MPR) mark with 'Proudly Lead Free' on it. That mark is your assurance that the product meets the new lead free requirements.

Can’t I just check the technical standards myself?

Yes — you can look for codes like G12/AS1 or the WaterMark AS/NZS 4020 on product packaging, or as a document usually found under the product description online

The ‘Proudly Lead Free’ mark was created to make it easier for everyone to find compliant products. Whether you’re a homeowner, DIYer or tradie, you can spot it at a glance and know the product you’re choosing meets the standard — giving you confidence your drinking water is safe.

Does every Master Plumbers Recommended labelled product mean it’s lead free?

Not necessarily.
The MPR label shows a supplier is part of the Master Plumbers Recommended programme — meaning their products meet our standards for reliability, local fit and quality.
The 'Proudly Lead Free' mark is different. It only applies to products that come into contact with drinking water and shows they meet New Zealand’s new lead free requirements. That mark won’t be relevant for every supplier or every product, but where you see it, you can be confident the product is safe for your water.

Where will I see the ‘Proudly Lead Free’ mark?

On packaging, websites, and promotional material for compliant products. If you don’t see the mark, ask your plumber or supplier before buying.

Does being ‘lead free’ affect performance or design?

No. Lead free products work the same way as traditional ones — the difference is they’re made with safer materials that meet the new standards.

Who’s behind this mark?

The 'Proudly Lead Free' mark was created by Master Plumbers. As New Zealand’s largest membership organisation representing plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers, we’re not only here for the industry — we advocate for the public too. Having safe drinking water is part of our focus under our Public Health & Safety advocacy pillar.
 
We lobbied for many years for stronger rules around lead in plumbing products, and we’re pleased to see those changes now in place. The mark is a simple way to put those rules into practice, giving everyone confidence that the products they choose meet the standard.
 
If you want to find out what else we’re working on, read our Advocacy Action Plan.