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Get ready now for the lead-free plumbing product deadline

16 October 2025

Children filling water jug directly from the kitchen tap

Plumbers and consumers already have plenty of choice when it comes to lead-free plumbing products. 

New Zealand manufacturers and suppliers have been working hard behind the scenes to ready themselves for the new lead-free rules that come into effect on 1 May 2026, and a wide range of products are already available on the shelves.

From the May 2026 deadline, plumbing products that come into contact with drinking water must contain no more than 0.25% lead content. 

This includes products such as tapware, water dispensers, domestic water filtration equipment, backflow prevention valves, and copper alloy fittings.

Information for Plumbers

Information for Consumers