Water New Zealand is urging the Government to implement the recommendations of the Havelock North drinking water inquiry without delay.
A national not-for-profit organisation, Water New Zealand promotes the sustainable management and development of New Zealand's three waters (freshwater, wastewater and storm water).
Chief executive John Pfahlert said that while many councils did a good job providing safe drinking water, the inquiry had clearly identified systemic problems in the regulation and supply of safe drinking water, and the need for major reform.
Unless there were significant changes to the way drinking water was regulated, there was a serious risk of another contamination outbreak on the scale of Havelock North, he warned.
"This report provides a blue print for the Government to move forward to ensure that our drinking water meets the needs of what New Zealanders and visitors should expect from a modern 21st century developed world water supply."