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The Director-General of Health has directed 14 local authorities to add fluoride to some or all of their water supplies.
It’s the first time the power has been used since the Health Act was amended last year to shift the decision-making authority on fluoridation from councils to the ministry.
The Director General, Ashley Bloomfield, says fluoridation is proven to be a safe, affordable and effective method of preventing tooth decay.
Community water fluoridation benefits everyone, but especially children, Māori, Pasifika and our most vulnerable.
Funding of $11.3 million is available for capital projects associated with the direction.
Adding fluoride to the water supply in these 14 local authority areas is estimated to increase the number of New Zealanders receiving fluoridated water from 51 percent to around 60 percent.
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