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March 26, 2025
Whangārei Council Loses Fluoride Court Battle
Atereano Mateariki
Posted On March 26, 2025
The Whangārei District Council has lost its court bid to stop adding fluoride to the city’s water.
The High Court rejected the council’s request for an injunction, with Justice Karen Grau saying it would allow unlawful conduct.
The council voted against fluoridation in November but reversed it under government pressure. Despite this, it sought an injunction while challenging fluoride’s safety and the Health Ministry’s authority.
Justice Grau criticized the council for applying at the last minute and accepting government funding for fluoridation equipment.
Fluoridation has now begun and will continue while the council’s legal challenge is heard.
Justice Grau doubts its success, noting that fluoride has been safely used in New Zealand for decades.
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