RNZ Checkpoint, RNZ Digital reporters New Zealand homes will now be required to fit lead-free plumbing products that protect the quality of drinking water. The legislation - an update to the New Zealand Building code - was announced in November 2022 by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and comes into effect from Saturday, a transition period that allowed the industry to adopt new products. The change does not affect existing plumbing, but any repairs or new installations must comply with the new rules, which apply to any product that comes into contact with drinking water, including kitchen taps, bathroom basin taps, laundry taps and water heaters. "The quality of the buildings where we live, work and play can have a significant impact on our wellbeing, and there is growing evidence that even trace amounts of lead exposure can be harmful over time," Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk said.…