Over 38,000 plumbing and drainage products approved

Author: Ben O'Connell
Over 38,000 plumbing and drainage products approved

The Government continues to advance more overseas building products into the country, with the MBIE issuing 54 recognition notices that cover around 38,000 plumbing and drainage products already used widely in Australia. 

Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says the second tranche of overseas building products certified under the reputable Australian WaterMark scheme can now be accessed easily by Kiwi tradies and do-it-yourself homeowners.  

“While these materials are already tried and tested in Australia and familiar to many tradies in New Zealand, Kiwi builders and designers previously had to individually demonstrate that each product met Building Code requirements when applying for consent to use it.”

Now, because of amendments to the Building Act through the Overseas Building Products Amendment Bill, MBIE can recognise products already certified in overseas schemes in large quantities.

In October 2025, the first round saw more than 90,000 WaterMark-approved tapware, water service products, and sanitary and stormwater drainage products brought onto the market.  

BCAs must accept these products as compliant. Penk says this will reduce unnecessary red tape, costs, and delays while allowing a more diverse range of materials to be used. 

“Supply chain shocks and shortages choke building productivity. Better access and greater choice provide the industry with more resilience and increase market competition to put downwards pressure on prices for tradies and homeowners.”

Before these changes, builders and designers had to individually prove that each product met New Zealand Building Code requirements. 

Tradies and homeowners can check whether a product is recognised under the WaterMark scheme by visiting MBIE’s website or reviewing the official recognition notices.

Minister Penk says tradies and homeowners can expect even better access to key materials such as plasterboard, cladding, windows and doors as the MBIE continues to review and approve overseas building products.

“The Government is focused on fixing the basics and building a better future for New Zealand, and that means making it easier and more affordable to deliver the homes and public buildings that will ease house prices and lift living standards.”