Water supplied from Karamū–Tākinga Springs helped Rotorua earn national recognition in the 2026 IXOM National Water Taste Test.
Rotorua was named one of four finalists from across Aotearoa, with the finalist water sample sourced from Rotorua’s central water supply network, which draws from Karamū–Tākinga Springs — a wāhi taonga of deep significance to Ngāti Kearoa Ngāti Tuarā.
The annual competition celebrates excellence in drinking water quality across New Zealand, assessing clarity, odour, taste, and overall quality through blind judging. While Rotorua did not take out the overall title this year, being recognised among the top drinking water supplies in the country is an achievement our hapū can be proud of.
Rotorua Lakes Council acknowledged the importance of the ongoing partnership and shared responsibility involved in protecting and maintaining the puna and wider catchment. For Ngāti Kearoa Ngāti Tuarā, Karamū–Tākinga is more than a water source — it is a taonga tuku iho, carrying the mauri, histories, and identity of our people.
This recognition reflects not only the natural quality of the puna itself, but also the collective efforts that continue to uphold and care for it for future generations.
As a hapū, we acknowledge all those who contribute to the stewardship of Karamū–Tākinga, including whānau, kaumātua, kaitiaki, scientists, and partners who continue to support the protection and restoration of this special place.
The recognition also comes at a time when ongoing kōrero and planning continue around the future aspirations for Karamū–Tākinga, including environmental restoration, education opportunities, and the strengthening of cultural connections to the puna.
You can read the full Rotorua Lakes Council article here:
Rotorua Lakes Council – Rotorua named finalist in national water taste test
