For almost 30 years, our scientists developed and managed Drinking‑Water Information New Zealand (WINZ), a national database that helped the Ministry of Health track drinking water supplies and produce the annual reports required by the Health (Drinking Water) Amendment Act 2007. Now hosted by the Water Services Authority | Taumata Arowai, WINZ brings together information on water sources, treatment processes and the populations served to inform policy decisions.  

Across the South West Pacific, safe water and sanitation access can be hardest to secure for the most vulnerable. When pathogens or other contaminants enter drinking water supplies, the effects are immediate and can be deadly. Working with partners such as UNICEF, PHF Science has supported fit for purpose WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) programmes in many countries, which focuses on the health of children and their families.  

PHF Science continues to help countries adapt to a rapidly changing environment, strengthening protection for health and social security. In 2006, our scientists helped deliver drinking‑water safety workshops in Tonga, the Cook Islands, Vanuatu, Palau and Samoa. In New Caledonia, PHF‑led work identified norovirus and other enteric viruses, highlighting contamination risks at popular beaches and informing local action. 

With more frequent extreme weather affecting water supplies at home, these partnerships help Aotearoa learn from Pacific resilience and strengthen our own preparedness.