Do you oppose adding fluoride (hydrofluorosilicic acid) to our water? Are you aware that promoters now say the primary benefit from fluoride is topical rather than systemic (i.e. it needs to be applied to the surface of the tooth rather than swallowed)? Are you aware of other successful public dental health programmes such as CHILDSMILE in Scotland or NEXO programme in Denmark? Do you think having fluoridated water should be: If you would like to include comments we will publish them along with your answer
Ashburton District Council
Marie Hibbert Yes Yes No A personal choice
Stuart Wilson No No Yes Decided by DHBs I am in favour of adding fluoride to all drinking water
edward gates Yes No No A personal choice I believe the individual public should be able to decide whether to use fluoride, or not. Furthermore, the decline in qualified staff and corresponding appalling decline in services offered by many small district councils, would not see them in a position, to decide, the use of a chemical such as fluoride.
Auckland Council
Rochelle Gormly Yes No Yes Decided by local councils
Saffron Toms Yes Yes No A personal choice
Alezix HENETI No No No Other I pay alot of money every week as I only drink PURE distilled water 4-6 litres EVERYDAY, 7X days of the week.. However in saying that up until 4-5 months ago I was drinking 6 litres of boiled and then cooled tap water EVERYDAY, 7X days of the week and I still got many health benefits. I spent 4 years in Kaikohe and the Far North district. Many young mothers and adults and children there have extremely bad mouth and tooth decay from lack of good water and poor dental hygiene. Many 25year olds were toothless. I was shocked to discover they did not have clean nor fluoridated water. Clean water is essential to good health. As a Maori it worried me that the high Maori population there DID not understand the value of safe, clean tasty water.
Chris Darby Yes Yes No A personal choice I am not a fan of mass medication of a population through the public water supply.
Susanna Kruger Yes Yes Yes A personal choice Adding fluoride to water is trying to deal with the symptom rather than the cause of a condition.
Penelope Andrews Yes Yes Yes Decided by DHBs
Anne Degia-Pala Yes Yes No A central Government decision Information needs to be readily available in schools, medical centres and community centres  to raise awareness.
Vernon Tava Don’t know Yes No Decided by DHBs
Pauline Jaspernelly Yes No No A personal choice
Uzra Casuri-Balouch Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
Julie Fairey No A central Government decision I have done a lot of thinking about this and listening to views over several years, and come to the conclusion that on balance water fluoridation is the right thing to do.  I have been particularly influenced by listening to dental nurses who worked in rural areas in mid 20th century, telling how as fluoridation rolled out their service was restructured to cover larger and larger numbers of children as they were seeing less tooth decay.  I respect the right of those opposed to fluoridation to continue to raise that view and lobby on it and will continue to politely listen and think.
Don Campbell No No No Decided by local councils
John McCracken No Yes Yes A central Government decision
Penny hulse No Yes No A central Government decision I have read reports on this issue and during my time as a member of the Waitemata DHB we discussed this at length. On balance I still support fluoridated water. Thank you.
Judy Lawley Yes Yes Yes A central Government decision It will not be an easy change to make and I support a strong public education programme before any political decision making on this issue.  It’s been a long time coming, a bit longer would not be too harmful, to try to bring the public on board to support a change.
Melanie Phillips Yes Yes Yes A personal choice Fluride looks to me like a quick and dirty  fix which may cause bigger problems in the future. It seems crazy to say we need fluoride in our water because children eat so much sugar and dont brush their teeth. Address the underlying cause of poor dental hygene and diet don’t accept, condone and support such an unfortunate situation for our most vulnerable. The benefits of addressing the underlying causes will be much more than less tooth decay and could save more money than it costs if we are creative about how we can change the situation.   I support a tax on manufactured / processed foods relative to how much sugar they contain over a certain threshold. Not a tax on sugar itself.  Thank you.
Fay Freeman No Yes Yes Decided by DHBs
Dorthe Siggaard Yes No Yes A personal choice I do not support mass medication of a population through their drinking water
Damian Lighth No No No Decided by DHBs
John Davies No No Yes A personal choice I have a negative view of chemical weed management and whilst I am not standing for a position of direct influence over water treatment, I see my consistent positions of adding as little chemical in to our lives as possible and maximising people’s freedom of choice compels my support for fluoridation being a personal choice, not that of a government organisation.
Catherine Farmer Don’t know No No A central Government decision fluoridation of drinking water is a controversial topic
Tricia CHEEL Yes Yes Yes Other I suffered the toxic effects from fluoride for 35 years, all the while wondering what was wrong with me until I suddenly stopped drinking Auckland’s tap water altogether in October 2012 which resulted in a tremendous improvement in my health and well being.    This highly toxic industrial waste product should not be disposed of in any water especially not the public water supply!
Henk Habraken no Decided by local councils I feel that each town/community should be able to make their own decision on this,based on what the people want.As a former Franklin District Councillor some 12 years ago this was an issue in Waiuku and I was for the people to have a choice then also,but the Health Authorities forced it upon us.So I very much for the Community to have a choice!!
Savea Lavea yes I stand for a free Fluoride New Zealand in all it’s water resources.
Tracy  Mulholland Don’t know Many thanks for asking and considering that I have a view on this. I am currently completing some work for a function and would like to find out more and come back to you with a firm comment.  How long can you give me to answer your question.
Bill   Cashmore no The issue of fluoride treatment of Reticulated water is now decided by DHB. However my position for your interest is to support the science  conducted by  the Otago Medical School which concluded that the continued use of fluoride has health benefits well in excess of any risks.
Auckland DHB
Robyn Northey Yes Yes Yes Decided by DHBs I am a former School Dental Nurse and see the ravages in teeth -adult and children-caused by poor diet and poor oral hygiene .Srengthen ing teeth with flouridated water is a safe and useful public health measure to help address this health issue
Trevor Boone No Yes Yes Decided by local councils Thanks for the opportunity; I have responded with my belief which is that population health is an important issue, but implementation should rest with the community being served.
Chris Peel No Yes Yes A central Government decision If I am elected to the board any decision of health policy would be based on the advice of the medical professionals who serve those living under their care. Fluoridation of drinking water remains the most effective and socially equitable means of achieving community-wide exposure to the caries prevention effects of fluoride.  It’s great to see health systems across the world exploring different ways of improving public health. It’s worth noting that while programmes in Scotland and Denmark have good success they also have public funded dental care beyond the age of 18, which NZ does not.
Adam Amos Yes No No A personal choice I always boil my water, and keep it in the fridge for drinking, because I don’t like the taste of regular tap water.
Scott Milne No Yes Yes A central Government decision The decision to fluoridate has been the single most successful health policy decision in decades. It is unfortunate it is not universally available.
Patrick Brown No
BOP DHB
Ron Fyfe No Yes Yes A central Government decision I am strongly in favour with the background knowledge that I have having had a father working in a dental hospital in Glasgow seeing the appalling state of teeth there. However if it came to a vote within the DHB I would do a lot more research on other options before I made a commitment
Mark Arundel No Yes No A central Government decision Our DHB Public Health experts have consistently supported Fluoridation , in line with the WHO  , and most recently confirmed that recommendation when the BOP Dhb board sought advice to produce a position statement on Fluridation of community water supplies in 2015. I have supported  that position based on the professional advice we have received.  It appears the current position is that DHBs will be directed by the Minister to ensure the Fluoridation of community water supplies in line with the Ministry of Health position on this issue. I understand the weight of evidence at this time still supports fluoridation as a highly effective population health action. It would seem that much concern would be alleviated if the contaminants you claim are included were avoided by ensuring highly soluble pure  sodium fluoride  was used .  My own  research has indicated soil levels of fluoride in most parts of the world average 100ppm ( much less in NZ) and sea water at 1ppm. I understand that Fluoride , Selenium , Boron , and Iodine are all trace elements which occur at lower than average levels in NZ  .
Yvonne Boyes No Yes Yes A central Government decision A referendum and democratic vote in   Whakatane asked for fluoride to remain in the water system.  I believe it’s also a social responsibility to support our populations.  The dental association supports the fluoridation of water.
Yvette  Lamare yes I oppose water fluoridation period. Please inform ALL PEOPLE on my behalf to go to www.fluoridealert.org/articles/50-reasons  Let the public, our people read for themselves why we SHOULD NOT fluoridate our water.
BOP Regional Council
Gina Mohi Yes No No A personal choice
Stuart Crosby Yes No Yes A personal choice
Wetini Paul No No No Other Other – Decide by local council referendum
Keith Johnston Yes No No A personal choice
Tiipene Perenara-Marr Yes No No A personal choice Fluoride is a chemical and has no place in our water or bodies
Buller Council
Terry Archer Yes Yes Yes A personal choice With such diverse ‘expert opinion’ it is very difficult to make an informed decision, however the reality is that dental decay appears to be getting worse.
Kim ashby Don’t know No No Decided by DHBs
john O’Connor Yes No No A personal choice
Brent Oldham Yes No No A personal choice I am opposed to any bulk medication of populations, All decisions on taking medication should be a matter of personal choice.
Simon Burke No Yes Yes A central Government decision
Robyn Nahr Yes Yes No A personal choice
Andrew  Beaumont no Unfortunately you do not give me the options in your survey to truthfully give my stance – I. E. Not Applicable. This matter is being legislated to be managed through DHBS who I believe are the appropriate authorities to be making these types of health-related decisions. Their mandate is to thoroughly investigate all research on the matter, not selected material to support your organisation’s campaign.
Canterbury DHB
Jono Bannan No No Other Considering the strong feelings of people on both sides of the debate, the only fair solution is to hold a referendum and live with the results.
Anna Crighton Yes Yes No A personal choice I am not convinced that fluoridation is the best way to fight tooth decay because very little tap water is actually used for drinking. There are other ways of protecting children’s teeth – a tax on sugary drinks for example.
Ken May Yes Yes No A personal choice I am opposed to adding anything to our water, when the science is cosmetic. Genetics, diet and poor personal hygiene are primary causes for tooth decay and solutions to reduce it are on the shelves in our supermarkets.
Kelly Dugan Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I have looked at many articles relating to the potential threat of not having fluoride in the water and of course the potential benefits. It is obvious this is a very polarizing issue and there is a huge amount of discussion from those for and against adding fluoride to all our water supplies in Canterbury. My opinion is that if somebody wants fluoride in their water they can add this themselves (fluoride tablets for example) without impacting the rights of those who do not want it for whatever reason. I am against any government agency making a decision on behalf of all people when there are so many who do not want fluoride in their water supply.  Those people who do want fluoride in their water have options and can easily add this and those who do not want fluoride should have the same personal choice.
Richard E Yes No Yes A personal choice Neuroscience `Journal confirms adverse effects of fluoride.
Janet De-Lu Don’t know Yes No
Andrew Dickerson Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I have doubts that fluoridation will reduce tooth decay, given only a very small % of our tap water is actually used for drinking.  And I am not convinced that the most vulnerable children are drinking tap water anyway.  And fluoridation will do nothing to address the growing problem of child obesity. As an alternative to fluoridation I support a tax on sugary drinks, as recently announced in the UK.  I believe this will assist in reducing both tooth decay and child obesity.    Andrew Dickerson  Elected Board Member, Canterbury District Health Board
Don Church Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
David Morrell no Thank you for your enquiry. I have stated in my election statement that I favour the flouridation of the water supply. Though my father was a Kiwi, I was born and hasd my earliest years in one of the two highest natural flouride areas in the British Isles. I could not understand when we returned to NZ why my friends were all getting their milk teeth drilled and filled. My own children had flouride tablets supplied by us and had excellent teeth. However so many children of poorer families do not have such good fortune, whether because of affordability issues or simply as a result of parents living hand to mouth. As Christchurch City Missioner for 22 years, I know just how many such children there are – they are not a small minority. I am an ex Dunedinite which is where the flouride debate began and I have lived with it for most of my adult life while these poor children’s teeth are left to rot. Should the matter come to the board’s table if I am re-elected, we will as is our public duty, go carefully though the evidence again, and each of us will have to re-consider our position. However I might suggest that many candidates who have said that they are undecided have not necessarily accurately represented their position. I decided that in all fairness I should offer my starting position – subject of course, if I am re-elected, to consideration of evidence presented if or when the issue comes before the board
Capital and Coast DHB
Paul Douglas Yes No Yes Decided by DHBs See “The Dangers of Fluoride and Fluoridation” on internet, by Michael Schachter (an American Doctor) I’m against fluoride because of his evidence about fluoridation at rates of 1ppm (similar to NZ treated water of <1ppm) calcifies soft tissue [& bone]. That contributes to: osteosarcomas in adolescents, especially males, & can inhibit enzymes, & damage immune systems. I believe there is also associated evidence it hardens (changes the density of) bone,&soft tissue which may be affecting adolescents hearing because of the fine, small bones,& soft tissues, ie hearing mechanisms in the ear. I also believe based a lot on Paul Connetts public lectures that fluoridation is harmful to the unborn & developing babies brains. People need to be made aware each drink “adds” to ones personal dose, which is ~0.85ppm each drink in the Wellington-Porirua areas.
Paul Dudfield No No Yes Decided by local councils I hadn’t heard of the Scottish CHILDSMILE example before today, but I think if we are serious about reducing childhood dental problems we should use that model as well as low levels of fluoride in the water. That said, excessive sugar consumption in childhood is a much bigger health concern for me than the presence or absence of fluoride in the water.
Tavita Filemoni Yes Yes No A central Government decision
Sue Teng Don’t know Yes Yes Other There appear to be an ongoing debate on the public health benefits of fluoridated community water versus the potential public health risks of excessive fluoride consumption via community water supplies.   I believe this should not be a decision determined entirely by DHB board members.   We should commission an independent study with participation from all stake holders on the impacts of fluoridation to public health. In the mean time people should be able to opt-out of fluoridated water where that’s practical.  I do have some concern regarding bottle-fed babies receiving a much higher amount of fluoride compared with human breast milk. I support education initiatives to advise caregivers of the potential for babies to develop dental fluorosis when mixing formula with fluoridated water.
Sue Kedgley Don’t know Yes Yes Other Fluoride works when applied topically but I have yet to see compelling evidence that it works effectively when distributed in water. Despite questions I have not established whether tooth decay is worse in Greytown, for example, where water is not fluoridated than in Masterton where water is fluoridated. And there are serious concerns about the impact of fluoride on babies who would be exposed, relatively, to much higher doses than adults.
Helene Ritchie Don’t know Yes Yes A personal choice If this comes to the Board for a decision, I will look at the evidence closely before making whatever decision is required.
Kathryn Adams Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I am opposed to mass medication and the loss of personal choice.   I’m very interested in the Childsmile Scotland results
Carterton Council
Tracey O’Callaghan Yes No No A personal choice personally we live off tank water – rain off our roof so we have choice.  I would be a hypocrite to make a decision like what to put – or not put – in the water people drink and rely on.  I would like to see more info though so that people are making informed choices for themselves.
Mike Palmers Yes Yes No A personal choice see my email  I do my own research on issues.  I hold a number of post grad degrees including a M Appl Sci.  Have been involved with the organic sector, write articles for OrganicNZ
Central Hawkes Bay Council
Peter butler Yes Yes No A personal choice Chbdc removed fluoride from the Waipukurau water system 3 years ago which I supported
Paul Hanlon Yes Yes Yes A personal choice There are plenty of toothpastes which do the job
Mark Williams Yes Yes No A central Government decision I successfully led the charge to remove fluoride from the Waipukurau water supply.
Jenny Nelson-Smith Yes No No A personal choice
Central Otage Council
Tracy Paterson No Yes No A central Government decision
Roger Browne No Yes No Decided by local councils
Russell  Garbutt don’t know I appreciate the opportunity to participate in the survey, but I’d prefer that the survey was designed to be less unbalanced.
Christchurch Council
JOHN STRINGER Yes No Yes A personal choice Fresh potable water should be free and clean as God made it for all; Added chemicals not put in as a matter of course for all; I favour Fluoride being added in toothpaste and applied locally by users as a choice not in water across the board
Lee Sampson Yes Yes No A central Government decision I believe earlier targeted oral education has a far greater potential to make an impact in this space
David Cartwright No No No Decided by DHBs
Brian Steer No Yes Yes A personal choice It is not the 1960’s.  We are no longer taking Small Pox vaccines because Small Pox has died out, just as a number of bacteria killed by fluoride have also died out.  With easy access to fluoride in Toothpaste, Mouth rinses and semi-annual Dentist treatments, adding Fluoride to water supplies is frankly detrimental to our health.  Finally, we worry about pregnant woman drinking alcohol and smoking and then try to force them in ingest fluoride – a hazardous industrial waste by-product, in the water supply? No, it is just not right.
Yani Johanson Yes No No A personal choice keep our christchurch water pure
Sally Buck Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
Robin Tinga Yes Yes Yes A personal choice People need to do their own research about Fluoride and not just assume that Fluoride is the answer to dental hygene (mainly in children).  We need to understand what hydrofluorosilicic acid (fluoride) is and what the research shows.  I have and I oppose Fluoridation.  I support taxing suggary drinks.  I support an oral health program that targets ‘at risk’ children.
Melwyn Rodricks Yes Yes Yes A personal choice It’s funny how the more Societies seemingly progresses, the more it’s people suffer. George Orwell said it all – Today we have ‘Big Brother’ in every nook & cranny of our personal lives. Wonder how our caveman brothers got their flouride!
Catherine Chu Yes Yes Yes Decided by local councils
Simon Britten No Decided by DHBs I’m not sure why you are asking these questions of Community Board candidates, given that water fluoridation is currently a local authority responsibility and is being transferred to DHBs? The role of a Community Board is to represent, and advocate for, the interests of its community, and to that end my personal view is irrelevant, and I will ensure the views of the Papanui-Innes community are reflected, should I be elected and should the Community Board have a role in relation to water fluoridation.
jack singh No Yes No Decided by DHBs Fluoridation of water should be carefully implemented.Every country’s soil and water differes because some have already fluoridated water. In this case research should be done before implementing this program.health of people is very impoetant.
Jed O’Donoghue Yes No Yes A personal choice
Patricia Siataga No Yes No A personal choice No to fluoride.  Regions differ in the quality of the water and Christchurch has been known to have underground reseviours the have the best water.  To meddle with it requires investment of time and money which we can use towards things we NEED.  Fluoride used to be administered through the dentist back in the day.  Why not now?
peter Yearbury Yes Yes Yes Decided by local councils
Dean Lester Yes No Yes Other I have bad teeth, so I wonder if they would be better if water was fluoridated; the answer is I paid a price for not cleaning and looking after them. Fluoridation comes at a cost and we need to be prudent. There was a referendum held in 80’s in old Waimairi CC and vote 50/50. I am happy to be against fluoridation of water. Thanks for taking time to send me the questions. Regards, Dean
Rod Cameron Yes Yes No A personal choice I totally 100% oppose adding fluoride to our water. For those people that feel they need to have fluoride there are already many options available for them e.g. toothpaste, tablets, etc.The Government recently played “pass the parcel” by giving DHB’s the decision-making responsibility for the addition of fluoride to drinking water. If elected I would vehemently oppose giving our local DHB access to our City Council Controlled water supply. Let the battle lines be drawn!  As an aside, it would be interesting to know what % of the NZ population have dentures for which fluoride would have absolutely no benefit whatsoever.
John Minto Yes No No A personal choice Five years ago I was a passive supporter of fluoridation of drinking water because I accepted the word of public health officials that fluoridation helped reduce dental decay and improve dental health for us all. I thought the biggest benefits would be for the children most susceptible to early tooth decay. These are the children in our low-income communities where there are higher sugar levels in the diet and less teeth-brushing than in middle class families.    Although I’d never studied the issue I have a background in science and I would have agreed with the statement from the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor Peter Gluckman who said the science was “settled” in favour of fluoridating water supplies.    However since then, and more by accident than design, I’ve taken some time to look at the science for and against fluoridation and I’ve changed my position.    There is a mounting body of scientific evidence which makes a strongly arguable case not just that fluoridation is much less effective than we have been told but that it may also carry serious dangers to young children – in particular those who are bottle-fed with fluoridated water.
Deon Swiggs Yes No No A personal choice I recognise we have a problem in New Zealand and governments, business and community need to all work together to find a solution. The access to affordable preventative dental care and the availability of sugary drinks and the cost of milk all contribute to the problem. The new legislation going through government will move this issue to Health Boards, however our communities need to be informed with the right information and fully informed of all other methods of prevention and all the issues that are at the root of this problem.
Sara Harnett-Kikstra Yes Yes Yes A personal choice Christchurch is in the unique position of having pure water straight from the aquifers that does not need to be chlorinated. This however needs to be protected from activities such as the aggregate groups application to excavate beneath the water table.
Alexandra Davids Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
Manjit Singh Yes Yes No A personal choice
Scott Toomey Yes No Yes A personal choice There are more than enough items for sale if people choose to have fluoride. It should be our own choice rather than us being told we have to.
Tim Baker No Decided by local councils too many open ended questions in this survey. Have it balanced.
Dora Roimata-Langsbury Don’t know Yes No A personal choice   Thank you for asking me this question.    My personal position is that I do not like putting unnecessary chemicals in our drinking water.    Florida was topically applied to my teeth when I was 20 as part of my orthodontic treatment. I have had very few cavities over the last 30 years just replacement fillings.     However, if I was asked to vote on the issue of fluoride in CCC drinking water I would make my decision based on the best medical evidence and environmental information available at the time of making this decision.    I personally suffer from chemical sensitivities so this is an issue close to my heart and not a decision that I would choose to vote on lightly.
Jackie Simons Yes Yes Yes Other I believe it is a parents responsibility to ensure that their children receive adequate nutrition to support optimum growth and development. That said, any parent, at any time may have difficulty reaching these goals and that is where professionals should step in and address the underlying cause. E.g Increased nutrition education at Primary and High School level. Topical application of fluoride where necessary or maybe an expansion of the milk in schools program. Addressing issues around access to healthy food in poor areas and increased food wise education across the board are better than the ambulance at the bottom of the cliff approaches often seen from people with little or outdated nutritional knowledge.
Jamie Gough Yes No No A personal choice Cr Jamie Gough  Christchurch City Councillor (Fendalton Ward)  * Elected unopposed
Ross McFarlane Yes No No A personal choice If people & DHBoards think that fluoride is so good & kids must have it to prevent tooth decay, then they can supply it free in bottles at school sites ( remember the old school milk proogramme ) and supply flouride toothpaste via pharmac getting both to those that they think need it most    Do not put flouride into the cleanest water ie artesian as in Christchurch
Karolin Potter No A central Government decision
Peter Laloli Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
Anthony Rimell Yes Yes No A personal choice As I have noted above, it is my view that people can choose to fluoridate themselves.  It must not be put into our water without our consent: whether by councils, DHBs or Central Government.
Andrea Cummings Yes Yes No A personal choice
Paul  Lonsdale yes I do not want see fluoridation of our water!
David East yes Totally against
Shirish  Paranjape Don’t know “1. I am not an expert on this topic.
2. If I understand the conflict of interest rules correctly, I will NOT be able to vote on this (any) issue as a community board member (if elected) if I publicly take a fixed stance on this (any) topic.
3. As an active member of the community putting my hand up as election as a community board member is an extension of my multi-aspect community involvement. Therefore, it would be a sad day in local governance if you and your members decide the worthiness or otherwise of candidates on the basis of just one answer – however important it might be – like fluoridation.
Therefore, I regret that I will be unable to participate in your survey; even if it means your members do not elect me! On the other hand, I am quite happy to learn more about this subject using the links you have kindly provided; and provide my opinion via the survey as a common man AFTER the local election results are declared. I hope you can see this from a candidate’s point of view too.
Lianne  Dalziel yes I am Lianne Dalziel’s campaign secretary. In response to the issue you raise, Lianne wants to mention that the govt is planning to pass this responsibility to the DHB and she does not support fluoridating Christchurch’s water supply.
Aaron  Campbell yes The government is passing this responsibility onto the DHB’s. I don’t support fluoridating the water in Christchurch.
Counties Manukau DHB
Katrina Bungard Yes Yes Yes A personal choice As a strong advocate for effective healthcare services in my current local government role, and as a candidate for the DHB, I have followed the fluoride debate closely. It is my opinion that people should be given a choice and that the amount of fluoride added to our water in Auckland is excessive. Adding this directly to the water supply is taking away citizens freedom to choose what they ingest, and I do not believe this is right. I agree that many cities around the world do not add fluoride to their water supply and I do not think it is necessary for Auckland.
Dianne  Glenn Don’t know Responsibility for fluoridation has only just been handed over to the DHB’s and it is then up to each DHB as a collective to decide to support fluoridation or not. At this stage the Auckland Regional Health Authority has supported Fluoridation in the Auckland Region and each of the three DHB’s in the Region comply with that.
Jewel   Turinsky don’t know “In general, I am for giving people options to opt in or out of things. And I am for reasonable exceptions to that if there is a really good reason.
I haven’t made my own mind up about fluoride and its pros and cons. But I would have to be persuaded its benefits were conclusive before I would use tax payer money to add it to home water. So although I am not hotly against fluoride, I would most likely argue against adding it to home water as:
1. It would not allow people to opt out.
2. Many people would be consuming fluoride without knowing it. I don’t think that’s fair.
3. Tax payer money would be spent on something that many are hotly against.
4. I haven’t been convinced of the benefits yet.
Now, all that said, I might end up convinced of fluorides benefits. In such case, I might vote for allowing schools to do regular fluoride mouth washes, if say,
1. Parents had to opt in their child (fully informed opting in versus uninformed opting out).
2. Parents paid the cost (which would be nominal per child).
3. Parents were given an unbiased brochure on pros and cons.
So, That’s where I am at… At the moment. Before I vote on any fluoride related ideas, I will commit to researching it and coming to a conclusion in my own mind on what I would want for my kids. However, I still will probably vote against wide-spread use in water supplies as I think it’s not a practical option.
Far North Council
Patrick Crawshaw Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I am very much for personal choice and more importantly – personal responsibility.
Garry Clarke Yes Yes No A personal choice I am totally against fluoride in our water. I consider this product a poison if people want it that is their choice don’t force it on everybody.
mike ward Don’t know No No Decided by DHBs I had fluoride in my water growing up and needed a lot of dental work.  My wife and kids have drank from our river and our water tank, they have healthy teeth.  One of my close friends Dr Lance O’Sullivan thinks we should have fluoridation.  It remains controversial but people can choose fluoride in their toothpaste and then it’s not a political decision.  Cheers, Mike Ward
Martin Robinson Yes Yes No A personal choice
Gisborne Council
Meredith Akuhata-Brown Yes Yes No A central Government decision I would like there to be some more consultation and sharing of information that takes away the conspiracy aspect of this issue.
Peter Jones Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I am a staunch advocate against the fluoridation of water. I drink only rain water from my roof where possible. I am very angry with my ex wife for forcing fluoride tablets down my children’s throats and mine the best part of forty years ago and we all swallowed heaps of it because the pills were so small. My son has autistic symptoms and all my kids are dumber than their breeding would expect. I am vehemently against fluoride. Kia Ora.
Gore Council
Glenys Dickson Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
Donovan Harvey Don’t know At this point I am wanting to serve on the council as water is such a big topic for the Gore District Council and there is going to be a lot of capital investment in the sector over the coming term. I am still working through all the Fluoride information and am gauging what the Gore Community are wanting.At this point I am yet to come to any conclusions but welcome any further information you may have so if elected I can make informed decisions whilst on council.
Ralph   Beale yes I have been a vocal opponent of fluoride being introduces to municipal water supplies for over a decade. We had a public meeting some 12 yrs ago and the local DHB gave their spiel & Gore District Council had an expert from Cambridge present the Negative effects. At Council we took the well debated stance that we don’t have the right to Mass medicate our ratepayers, a view I still hold. Unfortunately now government has ” done a Pontius Pilot” and washed their hands of it – handing it over to local district health boards, Effectively taking our council choice away too. We are expecting the DHB to have another go At Gore District Council anytime soon and unfortunately some councillors have I suspect been swayed by daughters with young children. These daughters are ill informed and ignorant of the Downside to fluoride particularly for an ageing population. Keep up the good work.
Grey Council
Robert Rose Yes Yes No A personal choice I was active in the organised oposition to fluoridation the last time it was being pushed in Greymouth by the DHB.  My views are unchanged.  I would actively oppose any similar proposal for Greymouth in the future.
Hamilton City Council
Snowy Haitana Yes No No A personal choice The less inorganic materials and chemicals that we put into our bodies and the environment the better.
Russell Armitage No Yes No Decided by DHBs
Chris Jordan Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
Tania Hennebry Yes Yes No A personal choice If I am elected and this topic comes up again for debate I will share my views honestly.
Rob Pascoe No Yes No A central Government decision
Ryan Yes Yes No A personal choice
jack Gielen Yes Yes Yes A personal choice It should be a matter of choice flouradated as well as unfuoradated water
Peter Humphreys Don’t know No No Decided by DHBs I have read both sides of the argument and have decided that I dont have the scientific ability to weed out who is right or wrong, hence my choice is to let the DHB make the choice.
tony dixon Yes Yes Yes Other it is a basic human right to have access to clean water. it is an intrusion on personal liberty that anyone or any group should have the mandate to add a neuro-toxin to our water supply in the belief that it will be good for children’s teeth.
Leo Tooman No No No Decided by DHBs
Philip Yeung Yes Yes No A personal choice I was the only councillor who voted against Fluoridation of drinking water in Hamilton in March 2014. My foreshadow motion was to keep Hamilton city water Fluoride free (no fluoride was added for about a year prior to March 2014), but to use the $50000 (for the use of Hydrofluorosilicic Acid) per year to purchase Sodium Fluoride tablets for those who wants it. I successfully moved a motion to establish a fluoride free water station in Claudelands, Hamilton which is due to open in the next few days. I am following Hamilton Fluoride Free Facebook.
Pat Kaio Yes I do not like fluoridation in my drinking/cooking water thank you.  Home owners should be encouraged to put in water tanks. Its terrible when all the rain water is not caught. I say no to fluoridation.
Mano Manoharan yes Which is more poison, Fluoride or Asbestos? Do you know that all old developed areas are drinking asbestos water?
Hastings District Council
Sue maxwell Yes Yes No A personal choice I raised my children rurally only taking fluoride tablets during pregnancy. They have beautiful teeth with no fillings sustained during childhood. I think it needs to be a personal choice, not one size fits all!
Rod Heaps Yes No No A personal choice No person should have chemicals added to their drinking water against their consent.
David Mackintosh Yes Yes Yes A personal choice The majority of European countries do not add fluoride to their drinking water. They have based that decision on sound science and research and informed public opinion.
Chris Perley Yes Yes No A personal choice The options are available with fluoride toothpaste for those who wish to have it.  I believe that the who issue of tooth decay ought to first focus on root causes – over use of fizzy drinks and sugar, and children not brushing their teeth morning and night.
Guy Wellwood No No No A personal choice
Peter Kay No Yes Yes Decided by DHBs
Geraldine Travers No Yes No A central Government decision
Ann Redstone Yes Yes No A personal choice Fluoride is a toxin. I am against adding any poison or chemicals to our water. I’m against mass medication.
Stuart Perry Don’t know No No Decided by DHBs We spent most the past 30 years living in both town and country and both my sons grew up drinking a mix of both fluoridated and non-fluoridated water. Both have excellent teeth but that may be genetics from their mother. My primary school teacher wife has seen appalling teeth in children in both city and country where they have drunk treated and untreated water. Quite frankly, chlorination is the issue of the day.
Kevin  Watkins yes I do NOT support Fluoride in the reticulated water supply.
Henare  O’Keefe yes I opposed fluoride
Hauraki District Council
Dawn Sinclair No No No A central Government decision I’m a Dental Health professional who has witnessed the amazing transformation to the dental health of children (and subsequently into adulthood) when the recommended level of 1ppm is added to public drinking water! Yes, yes, yes to extending this privilege to every child born and raised in New Zealand. Thank you for publishing these comments along with my answer.
Duncan Smeaton no I am pro fluoridation and am not going to do your survey
Hawke’s Bay DHB
Lynlee Aitcheson-Johnson Yes Yes Yes A personal choice Apart from Hastings the rest of Hawkes Bay is Flouride free. The Hawkes Bay district Health Board are gearing to Flouridate the region . The recommendation came to my MRB (DHB Maori relationship Board) about 10 weeks ago .   Should the proposed legislation for DHB’s to determine fluoridation go as planned then there will be far and wide impacts to Napier/ CEntral Hawkes Bay/ and Wairoa who all enjoy pure Flouride free water supply at the momenT. If in doubt vote Flouride Out !  Let’s ensure our child brush their teeth, less lollies, and visit dental nurse or dentist’s ..
Hawke’s Bay Regional Council
Daniel Ross Yes Yes No A personal choice I do not believe in fluoridated water…all you need to do for a start is Google. ..Where does fluoride come from…??  Too many things to list as to why it is much more worse for everyone’s body than it is good!!!
Cynthia  Bowers Your survey is not relevant to me as I am standing for Regional Council and will have no responsibility for decision making re fluoride.
Tom Belford Yes Yes No A personal choice
Alan Dick Yes No No Decided by local councils
tim gilbertson No No No Decided by DHBs The science over many years proves that fluoridation is beneficial to dental health .I believe in science
Paul Bailey Yes No No A personal choice I’m not a fan of mass medication via our water supply without workable opt out options. Dental health is not a fluoride issue, it is a sugar issue. DHBs should be promoting and lobbying to remove sugar from our diets, not deciding to fluoridate our water supplies.
Peter   Beaven Don’t know I am standing for the Regional Council. Decisions to chlorinate or not are made by Territorial Local Authorities, not Regional Councils
Horizons Regional Council
Lindsay Burnell Yes Yes Yes A personal choice It would be better to phase out fluoridated water,and educate people with a similar programme like that in Scotland.
Nicola Patrick No Yes No Decided by DHBs
Horowhenua Council
Christina Paton Yes Yes Yes A personal choice Dental health is a matter of discipline and routine.  My three children had nil fillings and all still have perfect teeth.  In my view lack of attention to dental health within  the home is child abuse
Ross Campbell Yes Yes No A personal choice I am in my early 70s and have never been able to choose to have fluoride or not, however I have used toothpaste with fluoride in it and have enjoyed good healthy Teeth.
Brendan Duffy No No No A central Government decision
Chontelle Van-Hagen Yes Yes Yes Other Thank you for contacting me.    After reading your email I have done some research on this topic and it has come to my attention that fluoride is carcinogenic in regular doses.  I will contest fluoride being made out to be beneficial to ingest.    Kindest Regards   Chontelle Van Hagen
Chris  Corke Don’t know “Unfortunately, at this time, I’m not able to complete the questionnaire as simply not close enough to the issue to have a properly informed opinion on it. However, I’ll certainly peruse the links you sent and do some further research myself on the matter.
Once I’m comfortable I’m across the various positions, I’ll revisit.
Paul King Yes Yes No Decided by local councils a better way to protect childrens teeth would be a tax on sugar
Hutt Council
David Smith Don’t know No No Other Still undecided. happy with majority decision on this. Need more info. on benefits v possible harm.
Chris Milne No Yes Yes A central Government decision This is a controversial and technical issue.  I take my advice from the Ministry of Health. If they recommend fluoridation of water then I support it.  If they don’t then I will not support it.
Joy Skye No Yes No Decided by DHBs
Robert Ashe No Yes Yes Decided by local councils
Mike Fisher Yes Yes Yes Decided by local councils Q6: I would like a residents poll first before councils decide.  Q7: already on your database so receive the info anyway.  Thanks, Mary
Brady Dyer Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I’m proud to be representing one of the few areas (Petone) that has unfluoridated water in Wellington
Willie No No Yes A personal choice We where brought up on tank water. But my mother made her children brush with fluoride tablets i have 2 fillings at 55.  All the other people I know that didn’t have fluoride have mouths full of iron.
Michael Lulich Don’t know Yes Yes Decided by local councils I believe continue to keep fluoridation out of Petone water. From surveys, over half of people in Petone want no fluoridation in their water. Lesser amount in rest of the city. That why I put don’t know in question 3, majority of people in community of interest need to accept first.
Gerald Davidson Yes Yes No Decided by local councils My flyer contains a statement “no fluoridation [of Petone water]. I am opposed in principle. The water supply needs to be safe for drinking. Fluoridation has nothing to do with water safety, but with dental hygiene which is really a matter of personal responsibility. It is true that in certain parts of the world there is naturally occurring fluoride in drinking water and a lower incidence of dental decay. I’m not doubting the science. I’m sure a similar argument could be put for adding Prozac to water or vitamins, etc. The question should turn on principle.
Mark Leicester Yes Yes Yes A central Government decision
Paul Knox No No No Decided by DHBs My belief is that decisions on water additives are best made at the lowest appropriate level.  In most cases this us the local DHB who have the expertise, relevant information  and statistics to make an Informed decision .   I have lived in areas where fluoride is added and areas where it isn’t added
Lynette Vigrass Yes No No A personal choice Is there substantial proof of a much lower incidence of children’s dental caries in areas where water is fluoridated? Surely this research could easily be done within our country.  With just about all toothpastes containing fluoride, and topical treatments available at school dental clinics and dental practices, why do we have to have it in our water as well?  Are we risking possible negative body health outcomes for possible positive tooth outcomes? Are we sure we have looked at this from a holistic health perspective?  I believe that there needs to be a substantial debate on this issue backed by research that addresses all the health concerns, looks at alternative ways of delivering improved dental health for children, hears from a broad spectrum of health specialists and informed researchers and which seeks to find ways to deliver us choice regarding this non-essential additive to our water.
Kia  Houpapa no I will continue to do so until dentistry is free for all kids from Decile 1-7 schools. As a researcher, I am appalled by the use of selective research – by some of your cause supporters
Karim  Dickie no I support NZ MoH / UN WHO guidelines for use of fluorides. Non-fluoridated artisan water is available for residents to use at public taps in Petone (off Jackson Street) and in Lower Hutt (outside the Dowse Art Gallery). There is also talk about having another tap connected in the Eastern Ward. I would support this initiative.
Max Shierlaw yes Believe people should decide for themselves if they have fluoride or not
Hutt Valley DHB
Leonie Dobbs No No Yes Decided by DHBs
Bob Hickson No No No Decided by local councils The current Havelock North investigation into water reticulation will probably have further implications for the rest of NZ. I favour further consideration of fluoridation as part of this process.
Invercargill Council
Tim Shadbolt No No No A central Government decision Your survey is a load of tripe!
Kaikoura Council
Darlene Morgan Yes Yes No A personal choice
Kaipara Council
Adrian Bonner Don’t know No Yes A personal choice
Victoria del-la-Varis-Woodcock Don’t know No No Other I believe that each community should decide, after being given complete information, with the latest data from both sides of the argument. A local referendum of residents would ensure the decision was democratic.
Philip Scothern Yes No No A personal choice There is plenty of evidence globally of the danger of mass fluoridation of water supplies. There are more effective methods of protecting Health in general that also benefit dental helath.
Kapiti Coast Council
Holly Ewens Yes Yes No A personal choice
Kathy Spiers Yes No No A personal choice
Emily Boonen Yes Yes No A personal choice
Paul Hughes Yes No No A personal choice
David scott Yes Yes Yes A personal choice Long time anti fluoride in public water supply campaigner
Margaret Stevenson-Wright Yes Yes Yes Other I think that the imposition of fluoride is effectively robbing people of their health and well being. It is a disgrace. The negative health impacts stress still further our flagging health system.
Janet holborrow Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I have thought a lot about this over the past three years and have decided that adding fluoride to water is removing people’s freedom to decide on their own supplementation. There is too much doubt around the efficacy and effect of ingesting fluoride and the quantities are too random.
Kawerau Council
David Sparks Yes Yes Yes Decided by local councils
Lakes DHB
Julie Whare-Beach Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I totaly agree with Professor Paul Connett that two main  causes of decaying in NZ childrens  teeth is through to much sugary drinks and sugary foods. and the baby bottle tooth decay where parents  need to be educated around this subject. We cannot have our water fluoridated.This is subjecting the people to toxin poisoning eventually resulting in serious health problems to various organs in the body as described by Professor Paul Connett, Hastings Dentist and others who can be found on line websites. The decision to have our water fluoridated or not  to  have it is a decision that must be given back to the people to decide.  Their choice must not be taken away from them or their right to choose violated.by a local government decision
Frances Louis Yes Yes No Other Do not Fluoride our Water, Rotorua is already Chlorinated. To allow Lakes DHB to Fluoride our Water is mass Medication. Destructive to our Health and whats to Stop this Process from causing Death. Look at Jones Town where the whole Community drank Poison. As a Lakes DHB Candidate I oppose Fluoride. That will never Change.
suellyn caudwell No Yes Yes Decided by DHBs
Daniel McKay No No No Decided by DHBs I am pro-fluoridation.  Empirical evidence suggests that the only side effect of fluoridation is better dental hygiene.  From what I have read, the addition of fluoride into our water is just as innocuous as adding iodine into our table salt.  I will therefore support fluoridation of our water should I be a successful candidate for Lakes DHB.
Manawatu Council
Kara Lummis Yes Yes Yes A personal choice As a person who has survived cancer, I have become very aware of the multitude of chemicals our bodies have to deal with every day in our modern world. I cannot comprehend how a toxic waste can possibly be any good for our health. There are always other options and they should be seriously considered!
Albert James Don’t know No No A central Government decision
Russell Johnson Yes Yes Yes A personal choice After the court case in the Taranaki area where the judge said it was the same as adding Iodine to salt was in error as you can purchase non Iodised salt when shopping but you can not receive non flourodised water from the council. this needs to be taken to the human rights commission at the UN as the last port of call as medication without consent is a breach of international law.
Margaret Kouvelis No Yes Yes A central Government decision I’m well aware of some promoters research sources but I am strongly of the opinion our Ministry of Health should make the decision and it should be a central government decision.
Stuart Campbell No No No A central Government decision
Mike Richardson Yes Yes No Decided by local councils I come from North Canterbury where generally water is not treated and now in Manawatu have roof water. My stance is that water should only be treated when necessary for basic public health reasons, Fluoridation is not for that purpose therefore I do not favour it in water though I do in toothpaste.
Tony  Chapman no “Thank you for your E-mail and I must confess that the subject is one that I have not given any thought to.  Given the time to read and understand the resources, plus look at some counter arguments on my own, your request would take up more than three hours of my time without the additional time of  giving all points due consideration. I simply do not have that time available as I enter into the closing stages of my campaign. In my view such discussions are best left to the experts (from either side) and any comment I make is purely that from an ignorant layman.
Masterton District Council
Deborah Davidson Yes Yes No A personal choice
Bex Johnson Don’t know No No A central Government decision
Donna Laing Yes Yes No A personal choice
Chris Peterson No Yes No A central Government decision
Jonathan Hooker Yes Yes No A personal choice
Jennifer  Taylor I am engaging locally on these issues and so won’t be taking part in your survey
McKenzie Council
Jacqui de Buyzer No No No Decided by DHBs
Blake  Foster yes iam against floridation
Carolyn  Coakley yes As a medical herbalist and clinical nutritionist I am totally oposed to it. I will look at the survey later.
Napier Council
David Hannay Yes Yes No A personal choice I strongly believe that fluoride use should be a personal choice and not put into the water supply, dental health education starting young and reinforced to new parents would be a much better avenue for ensuring less dental issues for all.
Faye White No Yes No A central Government decision
Apiata Tapine Yes No No Other Water in its purest form or structure, does not require additives to assist with wellbeing, including teeth.
Mark Herbert Yes No No A personal choice
Michelle Pyke Yes Yes No A personal choice It would be wrong for central govt to give DHB’s the decisionmaking power on fluoridation as they have a vested interest in ‘looking like’ they’re achieving better oral health outcomes, even if it actually doesn’t.
Tania Wright Yes No No A personal choice
Tony Jeffery Yes Yes No A personal choice People have the right to make an individual choice.    Floride should never be added to good clean public water supplies.
Larry Dallimore Yes Yes A personal choice
Nelson Council
Richard Osmaston Yes Yes Yes A personal choice The monetary system has totally corrupted our society.  We see the 21st century solution being the abandonment of this outdated toxicity and the adoption of a Money Free, Resource Based Economy, where everything is free and all work is voluntary. We have the science, the technology, the renewable energy and the global, holistic human knowledge to do this. Now.  We are www.moneyfreeparty.org.nz  Thank you.  Richard
Tim Skinner Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
Rosina Cornelissen Yes Yes A personal choice
Mel Courtney Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I want to have the freedom to choose what I put into my body.
Glen Daikee Yes Yes Yes A personal choice Mass medication via water is unacceptable, and will not achieve the desired result. I support education programs as mentioned above. thanks
Kindra Douglas Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
Cynthia McConville Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I am totally opposed to mandatory water fluoridation and will oppose it every step of the way.
Kevin Gardener Yes No No A personal choice Mass medication is not to be expanded , We have iodine in salt, folate in Marmite which is banned in USA, and there was talk of doctoring bread to prevent child birth defects ,
Derek Nees Yes Yes Yes A personal choice My mind is made up so I don’t need any further information thanks.
Eric Davy Yes No No A personal choice I never have and never will support Fluoridation of the city water supply.  Cheers.
Robbie Kavanagh Yes Yes No A personal choice Fluoridation is an idea that should have been left behind in the 20th century!
Ruth copeland No Yes Yes A personal choice Floridation in our water is last century thinking, a violation of our democratic rights and I will lobby against fluoridation in Nelsons water
Paul  Matheson yes No to fluoridation in our water supply as I have stated before
Nelson Marlborough DHB
Charles Tyrrell Don’t know Yes Yes A central Government decision I am concerned about our community’s health in general and I would look to serve on the DHB with that point of view.  The fluoride issue is being promoted as something the DHB needs to grapple with.    I remember this debate happening back in UK in my teenage and young adult years.  As a former nurse I would want to see that the DHB is doing all in its power in terms of health prevention and I believe fluoridation falls into that category.  As I have not been on the DHB previously I have not been privy to the documents being supplied to them to inform the debate.  On the other hand I believe we need to listen carefully to others’ points of view and consider them before making decisions.  In other words until I have been able to consider all the arguments I still have an open mind.    One area I am concerned about is the way fluoride may impact older people, certainly in terms of osteoporosis for example.      Not everyone in our community cares for their teeth adequately or can afford increasing dental charges and if fluoridisation gives the more impoverished people in society a fighting chance of better oral health (alongside education that is) then maybe that is an argument to go ahead.
Judy Crowe Yes Yes Yes A personal choice Artificial water fluoridation should be banned in NZ and substituted with a NZ tailored educational programme using a mix of volunteers and professionals to teach tooth brushing, nutrition with an emphasis on reducing sugar dramatically and promotion of physical activity.  Less sugar would lead to less decay and obesity.  Less obesity would mean less diabetes and other chronic health conditions.
martine bouillir Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
Paul Rosanowski No No No A personal choice I believe in personal choice and where possible this should take precedent however there will always be things that will be controlled by Government or DHB for the community.   Flouridation has sat with the Councils and they have not made a choice about it. When it gets passed on to the NMDHB I expect there will be further investigations into the question of the value of flouride and a decision will be made on balance of the information that is presented. Currently I do not oppose the adding of fluoride into our water. Paul Rosanowski
Stephen Lee Where I stand “as a candidate” is on the side of sound democratic process. I have tried to explain my position more fully on my facebook page: Stephen Lee for NMDHB
New Plymouth District Council
Sherril George Yes Yes No A personal choice
Bev Gibson Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I am opposed to adding fluoride to the New Plymouth District water supply.   The World Health Organisations claim fluoride taken in small doses, over time, causes our bones to become soft and brittle.  Unlike the Royal Society report, fluoridation is harmless only when taken in small doses.    It is argued those at higher risk of tooth decay are individuals who have poor dental hygiene, no or little access to a dentist, diets high in sugar and carbohydrates, a history of tooth decay, and individuals who snack regularly.  Fluoride is found in foods such as fish and tea, in breast and cow’s milk.  It is my preference to encourage regular brushing of teeth with fluoridated toothpaste, eat a nutritional diet, encourage regular exercise and increase people’s knowledge through the means of education.        Cholesterol tablets [Lipitor]; anti-inflammatories [dexamethasone], antidepressant [Prozac] are some medications that have fluoride elements.  There are also levels of fluoride elements in chemotherapy drugs, anti-psychotics, appetite suppressants, and medication for patients who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis.  Clients who are on a wide range of medication do so as a matter of choice.  Clients are cognisant of the side effects.  Putting fluoride in the water supply takes away people’s CHOICE.
Greg Mackay Yes No No A personal choice Fluoride should be of choice. Other vitamins and minerals are of choice. One needs to eat food that contains  natural fluoride, e.g. carrots, broccoli cabbage etc. If you want fluoride go to a chemist or health shop and purchase your own. The  Fluoride that was put in our water was chemically made and made from the scum and ash from the top of aluminium and processed in Japan and turned into fluoride. SO NO FLUORIDE IN WATER.  It is my / your choice not any body else to decide for you. And our government nor the DHB has the right to decide for us.
William Simpson Don’t know No No Other I am a believer that the public have a right to make that important decision not government or local councils based in factual evidence
Lisa Wall Yes No No Other I do not believe in the fluoride should be added to our water, nor should central or local government have the final say. I also do not believe our DHB’s should be able to decide, this is solely based on the fact that they are entities that perform the agenda of whoever is in power. Some of the questions here are simplistic in there answers and require more discussion. While I feel it should be a personal choice this needs to be backed by evidence to support it. I also have to add a disclaimer as I work for Taranaki District Health Board. This is my personal viewpoint and does not reflect that of my employer.
Shaun Biesiek Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
Murray Chong Yes Yes Yes Decided by local councils This should be a local council decision as the cost of adding it is a council cost, also central Govt should not have the right to make a blanket decision on this as different regions have different dynamics, and we should not let DHB’s make the decision as DHB’s are known to be pro medication.  The main reason I am against adding it is because it is a known poison and no matter what dose it is given in you are still adding a chemical that is poison to our water supply.  People said asbestos was ok for many years and now look at it and if it is proven that long term low dosage of fluoride does cause cancer, then I don’t want my daughter saying to me one day “Well you approved it to be in our water Dad, and now my husband is dying of cancer because of it”  I believe every New Zealander has the right to public water in it’s most pure form as possible
JOhn Sargeant No Yes No Decided by DHBs Thanks for the opportunity to comment. I really appreciate it. Cheers, John S
Chris Manukonga Yes No No Decided by DHBs You will gather that from my lack of knowledge on this subject and whether fluoride should or should not be applied to our water reticulation is a decision for the health professionals, not lay persons on Council, like myself.
Doug Hislop Yes Yes Yes A central Government decision
Harry  Duynhoven You well know I am strongly in favour of water fluoridation and note that this is strongly supported by the government’s health and science advisors.
Northland DHB
Steve York Don’t know No No A personal choice To enable myself to make a fully informed decision and to take a position on the topic of fluoridation, I would need to review some published journal articles on this subject to at least examine the methodologies and results which either support or discredit fluoridation.  As a researcher I will critically analyse any research or information that is presented to determine the legitimacy of the findings.     I have not consumed (drinking) town or city water supply since 1996 from any source in NZ or overseas.  Likewise my family since 2006 as we purify our water supply with a water distiller and this practice was initiated 20 years ago due to my aversion to the chemical smell of the Auckland city water supply at that time.
Marita Walters Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I am against water fluoridisation as believe we should be able to choose what is best for ourselves and our families and not have it forced upon us.   The DHB/local councils/Government should not be making decisions like this on behalf of the community.
Sue Alexander Yes Yes No A personal choice I believe that fluoride is a prescription medicine.  I personally believe it should be a matter of informed choice as to whether a person and their family uses it, having been informed of the pro’s and con’s of the substance.
Northland Regional Council
Gavin Dawson Yes Yes No A personal choice I believe that fluoridation should be a personal choice. There are better and more effective ways of delivering fluoride to the communities that need it. Europe has good models that could be adapted to New Zealand conditions. Diet also has a large part to do with tooth decay, that needs to be addressed with the matter as well. It needs a wrap around and holistic approach to dealing the issue.
Jocelyn Yeoman Yes Yes No A personal choice I’m utterly opposed to fluoridation of water supplies.  There are far better ways to improve dental health, primarily reducing the amount of sugar that children are eating.
Justin Blaikie Yes No No A personal choice Fluoride is important in terms of dental health but it should be a persons own choice and it should be a form of fluoride that is not contaminated or sourced from another chemical process.
Joe Carr I am a regional council candidate.  Unlike DHB’s and district councils, regional councils have no role regarding fluoridation.  I use fluoride toothpaste
Opotiki District Council
Lloyd Hosken Yes Yes No Decided by local councils As a guiding principle I think Local Council should focus on delivery of the purest fresh water to citizens that technology allows.
Otago Regional Council
Maggie Lawton Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I have looked into this issue on various occasions. I have a PhD in Chemistry and now work in sustainable development and on environmental issues. I don’t think the evidence stacks up for water fluoridation. With so much controversial information I’d apply the precautionary principle and not support it. The use of topically applied fluoride through toothpaste provides an option for personal choice.
Michael Deaker No Decided by local councils
Stephen Woodhead No A central Government decision Strongly in favour of fluoridation.
Otorohanga District Council
Christopher Jeffries Yes Yes No A personal choice My brother and I were given fluoride tablets when we were growing up some 50 years ago! I don’t believe they’ve done us any harm.   However, for me there are two main issues arising from this discussion, namely:  1. Does the benefit (if any) outweigh the cost of fluoridating public water supplies, given that close to 100% of water used by the public is either flushed down the toilet, used in showers, washing clothes and dishes, watering the garden, washing the car and the boat, filling the pool, and so on. Very little water produced by local Councils is actually consumed. I struggle with the cost/benefit aspect of this.  2. If Councils, DHBs, or central Government believe that fluoride is beneficial, let them come up with a solution that allows those that want fluoride to obtain it free or at least at a heavily subsidised rate. It should be a personal choice, so those that want it should have access to it – those that don’t want it should not be ‘forced’ to consume it.
Derek Kotuku-Wooster No No No Decided by DHBs
Neville gadd Yes Yes No Other Fluoride simply shouldn’t be in water. I don’t understand how it got put in there, and what people are against getting rid of it. But my town supply water is shit anyway so I don’t drink it
Palmerston North City Council
Bruno Petrenas No Yes Yes A central Government decision
Nadarajah Manoharan No Yes Yes A central Government decision
Pat Kelly No Yes No Decided by local councils This is an issue for District and City Councils rather than District Health Boards or Regional Councils. I agree with Central Government view to leave the ethical question of fluoridation to be decided by local communities.
Ross Barber yes As mayor of Palmerston north   I will stop poisoning the water what could be of interest to you is the amalgamation of  horizons and  the listing  of these assets on the stock exchange. Hopefully we can franchise this to wairapa
Porirua City Council
Paula MacEwen Yes Yes No Decided by DHBs
Gordon Yes No No A personal choice I’ve always been confused by the fluoridation of water given that that’s the reason we brush our teeth.  As such, I’ve also been concerned as to what fluoride does to the gut flora given that our gut is responsible other parts on the body.
Andrew Wellum Yes Yes No A central Government decision If we aren’t monitoring water quality real time, as clearly is the case in Havelock North, it raises concerns about the accuracy of the fluoride quantities being added.  It’s a nationwide decision and standard, which is only left to councils, because central Government is too gutless to decide either way.  There should be five yearly reviews.  Porirua can’t make a unilateral decision, as we share water source, intakes and pipelines with Lower and Upper Hutt.
John Burke No No No Decided by DHBs I have 3 close friends who are dentists and I have discussed this subject with them all. They all favour fluoride being added to our water supply.
Sala Nimarota Yes Yes No Other
Mike Duncan Don’t know No No A personal choice Perhaps rather than fluoridating the water supply, fluoride tablets could be made available to the populace so that they can make their own choice as to whether or not they have it in their drinking water.
Dale Williams No Yes No A central Government decision I believe that fluoridated water can be an added advantage in protecting childrens teeth from premature decay, particularly in circumstances where other preventative options are less available or promoted.
Henry Smith Don’t know No Yes A personal choice This topic has been contentious for years and The Ministry of Health authorities who we place our trust in clearly supports water fluoridation..that not only strengthens the enamel of teeth but reduces tooth decay compared to areas of non – fluoridated water. Where there are natural springs/clean water available in some regional areas  ie Petone Wellington which I believe should not be fluoridated at all..natural clean spring water is beneficial to everyone. end of the day any changes to implementation of fluoridation to our water then it is vital that Community voices should be included and considered as part of the decision making in terms of agreement or disagreement…my thoughts only after visiting your website.
Queenstown District Council
John MacDonald Yes No No A personal choice
Niki Gladding Yes Yes Yes A personal choice The problems here are diet and oral hygiene and it’s important to address these issues because far greater benefit will accrue to our children from this approach.  I believe we all have the right to choose whether or not we consume supplementary Fluoride.
Terri Anderson Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I haven’t read all the evidence but I give a no as I think our focus should be on making sure our water is fit for drinking. I am not vehemently against floridation; I just don’t think the focus is correct when there are argubly better approaches. For children, schools could be a better conduit for dental care. Fluoride tablets worked for me!
Ruth Harrison Yes No No A personal choice It is a long time since I have studied this topic but so little of our freshwater use is for drinking water and if we fluoridate the whole supply we know that much of it will end up in our rivers and Lakes Etc. People can choose to fluoridate their own drinking water and should be able to make that choice for themselves
Tony Hill Don’t know No No A personal choice
quentin smith No Yes No A central Government decision the correlation between fluoride at appropriate levels and dental health is self explanatory.
Tamati   Maruera yes No I am do not agree with fluoride been added to the water.
Rangitikea Council
Cathryn Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
Rotorua Council
Julie Calnan Yes No No A personal choice
Jim Stanton Yes Yes Yes A personal choice My responses reflect the ongoing uncertainties around this issue
Kiri Skipwith Yes Yes Yes A personal choice Dental care has always been a real concern for our Whānau.  I agree that more education around healthy lifestyles is needed to ensure that children are exposed to appropriate dental care.  THis is why I support the health hub in the library.  wraparound services for our Babies and children easily accessible and child friendly.
Rob Kent Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
Reynold Macpherson Don’t know No Yes Decided by DHBs This decision is for our DHB and should be based on the best science available.
Nick Chater Yes Yes No Decided by DHBs There is a real need when making decisions around peoples health, to make them from a position of well informed and researched data.  These decisions must be made around peoples long term health care and well being, not about politics and money.
Annette Joyce Yes Yes No A personal choice I have always been concerned about  compulsory medication of the public, especially when there are topical and better alternatives
Euan McLachlan Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I grew up on farm, never had fluoride added to water. My teeth are great. My mother did give us flouride as smaller children but we had life water to drink. NZ need to have clear great tasting water and be proud of it. Not many countries around the world has this luxury. It should be personal choice if we are to continue consuming this. Hope for positive change.
David Waru Yes Yes No A personal choice
Mike Mcvicker No Yes No A central Government decision
Jerry Douglas Yes No No A personal choice
Steve  Chadwick no I support fluoridation. We list the debate last term I our Council. I am pleased the decision sits with DHB
Leonie  Pritchard no The council no longer has the responsibility for fluoride, that now rests with district health boards. I think that is the best place to decide as they have clinical expertise to inform the decision-making
Peter  Bentley yes “I’m against adding flouride to water supply
“Ryan
 Gray” Thank you for considering my input in this important conversation, due to the decision for water fluoridation being outside of the mahi of the Rotorua Lakes Community Board I feel as so it’s not my place to offer an opinion.
“Mark
 Gould” no My wife is a school teacher along with her sister and her Husband a retired school principal. My view has changed in that I indicated at a public Forum last week I support fluoride in water. The decision will be made by DHB Lakes and not by council. I am a mayoral candidate for Rotorua Lakes Council.
John  Dyer no Yes I support fluoridation
RangiMarie  Kingi yes “Tena koe, Greetings to you,
Thank you for your message which I acknowledge.
As a Independent Navigational Maori Researcher of Investigative Studies here in Rotorua, I am opposed to ALL FORMS OF TOXIC CHEMICAL additives to our local natural drinking water supplied by these councils.
I also OPPOSE the queen elizabeth schemes – university chemists, scientists and all involved etc, who dose our water  as an application – another form of chemical application.
I OPPOSE this adult scheming alliance between the ministry of health, local councils, beehive politicians, courts, universities GANG RELATIONS TO MEDICATE TREAT & CONTROL OUR HUMAN RIGHTS DRINKING WATER.
I OPPOSE this failure to maintain metal taps and pipes along with toxic metal based chemicals in our drinking water as cancerousto infants, children, young persons, has increased by 300% percent as part of the crown depopulation planning by Human writeoffs season now, to balance its Treasurey books!
I OPPOSE ALL Profits made by pharmac and all poisonous chemical companies involved in human poisoning of our water, which we are told is not fluoridated but chlorinated and radiated! It is urgent we do not drink our tap water, especially infants, children, young persons. Modern day mass human population poisoning is a Terrorism act.
I OPPOSE this practise of Radiating our water through artificial radiation exposure, radioactive exposure interpreted as high doses of radiation, which is supposed to be used in science purification. I STRONGLY OPPOSE THIS. To the point urgent action of investigations and a Courtcase of evidence compiled for the International Court of Justice against Queen Elizabeth and her Administration establishments here in New Zealand. These types are due for prosecution, public shaming, and mass compensation cases. As participants in a crime of Terrorism against humanity. Mass poisoning populations young and old is a inhuman practise overdue for urgent address!
I SUPPORT FURTHER INVESTIGATIONS INTO NEW WATER SUPPLY SOURCES from New springs and natural rainwater as drinking water for us locals here in Rotorua district area.
These are the fact findings of RangiMarie Kingi at Office of Lady Justice Duty of Care Governing.
I hope this brings an understanding of why I STRONGLY OPPOSE Chemical based drinking water as toxic poisons. I included in my public speeches WE REDUCE CHEMICAL USE Urgently! I hope this helps.  Thank you.
MA TE WA – IN TIME
Ruapheu District Council
krolik No A personal choice
Jacques Windell Yes No No A personal choice I believe the public should be better informed by local government about the harmful effects of fluoridated water, as there still seems to be a lot of ignorance surrounding this issue. I for one will push hard for this if I am elected Mayor, as what we put in our bodies every day is vitally important and should be taken very seriously, especially by those making these crucial decisions on our behalf, which affect our children, friends and whanau!
Lucy Conway Yes No No A personal choice
Selwayn District Council
Kerry Pauling Yes Yes No Other
Chris Martin No No Yes A central Government decision Fluoridation of public water has been shown by reputable peer reviewed research to be the single most effective public health action for benefiting dental health.
Bill   Woods don’t know Selwyn does not use fluoride in any of its water systems.
South Taranaki District Council
Mike  Fisher yes I know that fluoride is dangerous , I have worked for over 25 years in the water industry in New Zealand, England and Australia .
South Waikato District Council
Tracey Deane Don’t know Yes No A personal choice I am standing for Mayor. The Mayoral role is to ensure all voices are heard and that the people choose. I live rural with tank water – no fluoride. I’d be interested in a RURAL nationwide survey of our farming families, especially intergenerational, to see what state their teeth are in and whether they took or used fluoride. I think a local study would be useful.   In South Waikato, only the Tokoroa water supply is listed with added fluoride. It is likely to be time these people had a choice.
adrienne bell Yes Yes Yes A personal choice While I personally do not believe in any form of “mass medication” elected members must be careful not to be seen to hold strong enough personal views on any topic to preclude them from voting objectively in accordance with the wishes of the majority.
Andrea Shaw-Thorpe Yes Yes Yes A personal choice Fluoride was one of the subjects that we studied as part of my diploma and I think it, as all vits & minerals should be tested for and then can be supplemented as required – or not.  That is also why it is in toothpaste.  Provide that from the dental nurse for school kids if the nurse thinks they need it.
Peter Schulte Yes Yes Yes A personal choice If I wish to Medicated, I go to the doctor and get a prescription! I don’t need the government to administer me medicine against my will.
Noel Simpson Yes Yes No A personal choice
David Waine No No No Decided by local councils The answers reflect my personal decisions having good teeth and I had fluoridated water as a child.  But if the debate comes to a public forum then I will have an open mind to the issues
South Waikato Regional Council
keith silveira Yes Yes Yes Decided by local councils Philisophically apossed to floridation , however understand how sometimes needed , re the Hawkes Bay disaster ,
South Wairarapa District Council
Ann Rainford Yes Yes Yes A personal choice We should have more information on this topic
Claire Bleakley Yes Yes Yes Other Fluoride should not be added into water especially as there are other effective ways of maintaining healthy teeth.  Fluoride in the form that is added to water is a toxin and not good for health, nutrition and sugar free diets should be promoted.
Alice Arndell Don’t know Yes Yes A central Government decision The reseach shows that fluoridated water is ineffective but unless a viable alternative is given to the current system then nothing will change. Having teachers supervise teeth brushing is adding to their already over worked day and isn’t a solution that can be readily applied within our current education system. More thought needs to be put into this by the Government and DHBs so that a viable solution can be found.
Lee Carter Yes No No A personal choice
Robert Hunter Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I’m fortunate to live in a community that does not currently fluoridate.
Pete  Roberts ” A friend of mine had sent me several articles against fluoridation, I did read them and found various other articles giving both sides of the argument. I will follow the links you gave to the Scottish and Danish solutions as that sounds like a way forward.
Southland Environment
William Watt No No No A central Government decision I think any form of ‘mass medication’ needs to be done with extreme caution, however on the whole I think the addition of fluoride to water has improved the dental health of our community.   I am always willing to listen to new evidence.
Peter Jones Yes No No A personal choice
Tarirwhiti DHB
Hiki Pihema Don’t know Yes Yes A central Government decision
Marijke Warmenhoven Yes Yes No A personal choice When I was at University I read articles about the use of fluoride by the Germans during WWII to weaken the minds of the people? When I thought about it if fluoride was added to water for health and dental benefits, why wouldn’t all the other required vitamins and minerals be added also, such as calcium or magnesium? If, we really care about dental health in NZ we would limit the production of sugar laden and low nutritional food products available on the market. I am sure there will be real cost savings when they stop fluoridating the water!
Taranaki DHB
Josh Cleaver No Yes Yes Decided by DHBs This needs to be a balanced scientific debate held by health professionals.  Once all options have been presented then the balance of benefit should win the argument and local Health Boards should then implement the best options for the people on that basis.
Robert Shaw No No No Decided by local councils The benefits of fluoridation are established and vital to lower income areas of New Zealand. The fluoridation of water does no more than increase a trace element to the level that it occurs naturally in many parts of the world. I support the democratic processes which enable people to express their views and argue their case. We live in a great country, it just happens to be a bit light on a few trace elements.
David Showler Yes Yes No Decided by DHBs
Alby  Jamesy yes I am defiantly against fluoridation of the water!
Taranaki Regional Council
David Gibson Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
Brian Jeffares No Yes Yes Decided by DHBs This is now a decision to be made by the DHBs. You need to direct this questionnaire to those candidates.
Tararua District Council
Allan Benbow Yes No No A personal choice I personally do not support local authorities fluoridating water systems.It is easy and inexpensive for families to use fluoride pills rather than treat all water.  However, I am prepared to listen to what the community want, and if there is a clear majority wanting fluoridated water, I would not oppose.
Jim Crispin No Yes No Decided by local councils No
Andy  Thompson don’t know “Obvioulsy this is a passion for you and as much as I admire those in our society who stand up for what they believe in, I’m not really  in the habit of answering surveys offering limited or directed answers or rather scope for balanced answers based on one particular view [popular or not]. Your email obviously only prefers one opinion.
I have actually been elected to Council as there were 4 positions and only 4 candidates nominated so all of those nominated in the Southern Tararua Ward are basicly there already without the need for any election.Your email infers that I [we] are yet to be elected which is actually not the case.
However since you have taken the time to ask the question of where I stand on the issue , I comment accordingly.
We live out in the country and obvioulsy are not connected to any urban water supply. We have previoulsy lived in urban areas and don’t really have any recollection of any significant differences to our health and or lifestyle as a result of drinking either type of water – that includes our family and those who have stayed with us over the years.
Suffice to say that as a local body Council member [when I am eventually sworn in shortly] I will be guided by the best information to hand at the time when decisions about fluoridation need to made or commented on. I will also consider all information that perhaps  is not aligned to yours or your body which of course may be just as convincing [or maybe not ] as the case may be.”
Taupo District Council
Rosie Harvey No Yes No A central Government decision I have studied the arguments for and against over the past 3 years and my children have been brought up on fluoride in their water. I am happy with it being a central govt decision based on the most appropriate and up to date facts available.
Ray McBreen No No No A central Government decision I believe that Fluoridation  in NZ Has been a success, and   that far less decay has occurred since it’s introduction, and the main areas that has not been successful was in ares not fluoridated. Havelock North would have had less impact if treatment had occurred.
Gary Keepa Don’t know Yes Yes Decided by local councils As a former Councillor and current candidate I have heard arguments for and against by experts on both sides. The Swedish case against fluoridation was because they were overdosing water systems that already contained fluoride. Which experts do I believe?…the decision should be made at council level after a process….some councils should fluoridated and some shouldn’t….the decision should be made in the wider community interest…
John Boddy Yes Yes No A personal choice I stand for freedom of choice on this issue not compulsory in drinking water
Sall Nelson Yes Yes No A personal choice
Christine Knowles Yes Yes Other In light of the research provided with the questionnaire I think that fluoride in water should not be an option.
Andy Hema Yes No No A personal choice
Tauranga City Council
Sam Bailey Yes No No A personal choice
Kelvin Clout No No No A central Government decision My understanding that the level of fluoride in water is not sufficient to harm anyone, but does greatly benefit teeth, especially for youngsters.
Kevin Millin Yes Yes No A personal choice i know all about Fluoride thanks
Greg Brownless Don’t know No Yes Other The issue whether to fluoridate water should be made by public referendum.
Murray Guy Yes Yes No Other I believe fluoridate to be critical for the dental health of our young. In most cases this is achieved naturally.  I am well aware of concerns and also well aware of realities which may be conveniently overlooked as they relate to regions around New Zealand. For example, support by some for fluoridated water in the Tauranga region within safe toxicity boundaries is triggered by the fact that our water supply source is ‘fluoridate free’ in contrast to most regions.  Having identified those babies and children most likely over represented in dental hygiene and related issues I believe the Ministry of Health could be and should be addressing this by a targeted approach, through DHBs, with the provision of qualified advice to pregnant mums by midwifes, Early Childhood support agencies and the provision of dental brushes and paste by those schools providing school meals to students (in partnership with manufacturers).
Bob Harnor Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
Catherine Stewart Yes No No A personal choice
Rick Curach No No No A central Government decision
Max Mason No No No A central Government decision On the balance of evidence from the Min of Health I would support floridisation. However this is only one of many ways to promote dental health. Also very important is regular brushing, avoiding sugary drinks, diet etc
Hugh Robb Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I support and am committed to the availability of pure drinking water to all citizens.
Brian Oxley yes As it appears that the DHB will make the decision and not councillors  our own personal view appears to be not wanted by the decision makers.Personally – we do not want mass  medication When we are in an elected position  we need to listen to the ‘will’ of those who we purport to represent and make our decisions based on it.
Hori  Leaming Yes im dead against any contamination of our water supplies let alone fluoride im lucky enough to live in tauranga where we have microfiltration which i pushed hard for keep up the good work
“Tim
 Delaney “ no I am entirely in favour of water fluoridation. I know the science – the real science – around the issue and I am convinced of its value for public health,  like the value of water chlorination for public health. I know that,  in some parts of the world, the issue has been hijacked by promoters of pseudo-science and alternative medicine for their own benefit, and people have suffered greatly when public health policies have been determined by such promoters – just ask the people of Havelock North. There is no alternative medicine,  just as there is no alternative astronomy or alternative chemistry. The scientific method that applies in those disciplines should also be applied to medicine and public health.
“Graeme
 Purches” “Not interested in competing the survey. I personally don’t believe in your cause, and in any case, responsibility for this no longer lays with councils.
Thames District Council
Catherine Croft Yes Yes Yes A personal choice Although I personally don’t support florid in drinking water, I think it is important to note that this choice is no longer held at a local council level. I think that a way that we can support our local community who do not wish to drink florid is in providing an non fluoridated option, which Community Board is a present looking into.
Lesley McCormick No Yes No Decided by DHBs
wayne williscroft No No No Decided by DHBs Our area (thames) had a referendum on this matter. The vote was in favour of retaining fluoride. I believe this matter will now be decided  by the waikato dhb rather than council .
Peter Pritchard Yes Yes No A personal choice Any changes to the current situation would need widespread public consultation and put to a vote. I’m not aware of any plans to change the current situation in Colville /Coromandel ward.
Chris Stark Don’t know Under the ACT, candidates and elected representatives are obliged to enter into any discussion or vote on any issue with an open mind and be prepared to consider all evidence that is presented to them at the time of the discussion. My personal opinion is not important, what matters is that both sides of an arguement get an equal and unbiased hearing at the time of any vote and that the majority of residents opinions are taken in to account. Therefore any candidate who declares a strong position on any issue beforehand, such as at election time, would probably find themselves unable to vote if that issue was one that was subsequently being voted on by Council. Democracy relies on the integrity of elected representatives to do this.
Peter french No Yes Yes Decided by DHBs The Thames Community voted to retain fluoride in their water supply in a binding referendum. Local people local Decision and as an elected member representing Thames I support that decision regardless of my own personal views on fluoride.
Rekha Giri-Percival Yes Yes Yes A personal choice Thank you for the related materials. It was very useful for me to read.
June Bennett Yes Yes No A personal choice I strongly object to having any fluoride added to our drinking water and I have also read the 12 reasons why and done some research on this issue myself! I do not like what I know on this issue and consider without any reservation that fluoride should not be added to our water and if anyone personally wants to use it then they can use fluoride toothpaste! Our health is too precious to continue to add these poisons to our community’s drinking water.
Len Salt No No No Decided by local councils As somebody born in the fifties, and growing up in a working class area lacking in lacking flouride, my generation suffered from terrible tooth decay problems. These still exist and many people my age are now having to pay thousands to get their teeth fixed, or have lost them altogether. There is no affordable dental insurance and no government support for dental problems that are not covered by ACC, so the net impact on health and finances is significant for many people my age. I have looked at the science and the anti-flouride arguments have not convinced me that adding flouride to domestic water poses a health risk. In TCDC it is only included in the Thames water supply and I’m not aware of any plans to extend that to other areas.
Bill McLean Don’t know No No Decided by DHBs I’m not an expert and  I’m somewhat confused by an apparent support by dentists. Logically one would think they would oppose a product that benefits teeth and thereby potentially  reduce their income. I also guess the toothpaste manufacturers would not enjoy much sales revenue if they weren’t supplying to a willing market
Strat Peters No Yes Yes Decided by DHBs  I believe people should have the right to an alternative non-flouridated water source if a town has a flouridated water supply. the issue has divided communities with what is essentially a public health issue . Having said that…. just because it is mandated by Public health authorities as supposedly safe to digest!? doesnt make it right for those that do not wish flouride in their water….it should not be imposed on people and choice is important. That is why in Thames we  are looking into supplying a “central” source of water of non flouridated tapped water that people can use to fill containers etc!? Not sure of how safely can be done as yet?
Helen McCabe Yes Yes No A personal choice The Government should include dental professionals in its Health care funding as its the high cost of dentists that contributes to the populations poor dental health along with the consumption of high sugar foods and drinks.
“Debbie
 Farrell” no “No
No
No
Decided by local councils after consultation with residents
No
Clancy  Nixon “Here in Thames we had a referendum on the topic, the people voted to continue with fluoride in our water. Out of respect for the people I wish to represent that will be the position I take if elected.
My personal view in this matter is not material, the democratic process was put to the test on this subject and we all need to respect that process as I respect your views and the views of your group.”
“Murray
  McLean” don’t know The Thames Community made a democratic decision  I cannot comment further
Tony  Fox don’t know “I am a strong believer in democracy. We do not always get what we want but when the majority speak then I will also support the outcome even if it does not represent the position I held prior to a ‘vote’. On the Fluoride issue as it applies to Thames there was a binding referendum with the question supported by those for and against fluoride being put into the drinking water. The public spoke and with that I support the majority position. I also stress that when people vote they should consider the bigger picture. For us in TCDC the past 6 years have seen significant progress. From a Council that was dysfunctional pre the 2010 election we have now had a very well led and functional council and one that has delivered great results. Rate increases at a District level less than 2% over 6 years
External Debt down by over $20M
Interest costs down $1M pa
Capital works delivered at over 80% of budget (one of the best performances in NZ Local Government)
I would hope that voters would take these results into consideration when making their choices and not just single issues. To that end I will be measured on what I have contributed and delivered to both my community (Mercury Bay) and the District. If voters choose to focus on single issues then I respect that position. I will not be driven by the single issue folk as there is a bigger picture and as I have said I am a supporter of democracy. It is worth remembering :District rates would have increased by over 40% in the period 2010 – 2016 had it not been for the efforts of this Council. Had that happened there would have been some seriously unhappy people
Timaru District Council
Greg O’Brien Yes Yes Yes A personal choice Unfortunately the central government has removed the ability of DHBs to establish strategy for their regions!  I believe a detailed cost benefit analysis of the establishment of a Dental Hygiene regime for infants and small children similar to ChildSmile may reveal an overall long term benefit to the community and society generally, even when compared with the imposition of mandatory fluoridation programmes.
David Jack Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
Phillip Smith Yes No Yes A personal choice
Owen Jackson Yes Yes Yes A personal choice I am a proponent of personal choice and making good decisions through better education. I am fundamentally against putting additives into our water.
Andrea Leslie Yes Yes Yes A personal choice Fluoridation should certainly be a personal choice and is currently available in the form of toothpaste. I honestly believe that there is ample education promoted around oral hygiene and I certainly do not believe that it is place of any local authority to impose chemical additives to our water.
Sally Parker Yes Yes Yes Other
Wayne O’Donnell Yes Yes No A personal choice
James Valentine Yes Yes No A personal choice
Paul Annear Yes No No A personal choice
Jock Anderson No No No A central Government decision Fluoridation is a central government health responsibility and should be applied consistently across New Zealand, not left to individual local districts.
Terry  Kennedy yes “My own personal view is I did not vote for it and never will.
It is a NON issue for this election re DHB’s. I am aware that several Boards have voted on the basis that some want it some don’t?? The question is WHO Pays??? The majority of Ratepayers that may want it definitely do not want to have to pay for it. Timaru city put it in years ago and then three or so years later took it out as have many other cities.
It is not that simple if DHB’s have to pay for it then their will be no further discussion on the matter until around General Election time and you can bet your bottom dollar very FEW of those standing for Parliament will want to nail their colours on the gate. Reason. They won’t get elected and both National and Labour are aware of that.
If DHB’s are forced to pay for it then the money would have to- come from the Health Budget each DHB receive and I can’t see that happening.
Finally if it did it would cause such a “”riot”” around the country whatever Party was leading the Nation would be forced to resign their positions immediately as there would be no money for the Health Boards to spend. That’s why National wanted to give it to Councils and Councils have answered that by saying “”NOT OUR BABY””????
Perhaps at the next Local Government Election in 3 years there may be some “”movement”” but currently “”NO”” .Oh yes, they will have gatherings etc around the country leading up to Elections next year but again until the Government of the day hands over the purse which will be very, very expensive because you may or may not know that this time if it goes IN it has to go into every water supply in each District. e.g. Timaru has 10 separate supplies. They can’t just put Fluoride in Timaru and not in Temuka, but every area has to have it. Imagine the cost???
Marlborough have made a statement. “”They want to see up front the money not just to put it in but also for maintenance and buying special “”gear”” which is needed to run the system.”
Upper Hutt City Council
Vicki Amai-Waiwai Yes No No A personal choice
Glenn McArthur Yes Yes No A personal choice Unfortunately in Wellington stopping fluoride needs to be a collective decision of all councils supplied from Te Marua treatments plant. I have water filters installed at my house to remove fluoride.
Angela McLeod Don’t know Yes No A personal choice I do not abide by mass medication of which adding fluoride to water is. However, our Council does not control this, the regional Council does.
Hellen Swales Yes Yes No A personal choice
Waikato District Council
Stephanie Henderson Yes Yes Yes A personal choice Our water comes from a spring, and my children don’t need fillings good quality toothpaste does the job
Waikato DHB
Dave Macpherson Yes Yes Yes A central Government decision My position has been pretty clear for some years on Fluoridation – I am opposed to it being in the Hamilton city water supply, and personally voted in this way. BUT I recognise that a referendum is a decision-making process for all residents and, like it or not (and I didn’t particularly) they have the right to make that decision as a city, and Council is honour-bound to uphold that.    I did however second and vote for a successful motion to have two unfluoridated public water supply points established by Council after the referendum.    I will also personally speak against fluoridation, and for alternatives, and will do so on the DHB, if elected. Its quite unclear when that changeover would actually take place, and if it goes down to just a vote around the DHB Board table, mine will be against and public water supply being fluoridated. I rather suspect that the status quo will however remain for a while!
Mary-Anne Gill No No No Decided by DHBs Fluoridation of community drinking water is a major factor responsible for the decline in tooth decay during the second half of the 20th century and is a safe, effective and affordable way to prevent and reduce tooth decay.
Waikato Regional Council
Kataraina Hodge Yes No No A personal choice
Kathy White Yes Yes Yes A personal choice
doug boyde No Yes No A central Government decision
Tony Armstrong Yes No No A personal choice
“Russ
 Rimmington” yes As former Mayor of Hamilton City I opposed Floride place into our water and this is my position
Waimakariri District Council
Andrea Allen No No Yes A central Government decision
Peter Allen Don’t know No No Decided by DHBs I’m aware that the proposal is that the decision to fluoridate water supplies is to be taken away from Councils and given to DHBs. I support this because it is a health issue.  Given that our district does not currently add any chemicals to our water  I’m not in favour of fluoride being added.  i do however believe in the dental health benefits of fluoride – current science supports this in my view.
Philip Redmond Yes No No A personal choice Further research is required to justify its introduction.
Keith Galloway No Yes No A central Government decision I am a 70 + year old with Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren. My own children were brought up using fluoride but not my grandchildren. My father use to get some ‘Powder’ from Dunedin Dental school in the 50’s which we were made to rub on our teeth. I don’t think it was fluoride because my teeth, which are the product of the school dental system, are constantly being filled.
Chris Price Yes Yes No Decided by local councils Before fluoridation was promoted by a Council it should be very clear that this was a necessity to make the local water supply safe to drink – not just a possible short term solution that may assist health of the local population. And apart from a sudden health emergency situation it should require local area discussion before any action is taken.
Louise Davy Yes Yes No A personal choice
Sarah  Lewis yes I’m standing for a position in the Community Board not a Councilor. I do not expect these decisions will be made by Community Board Members. However, as a mother I do believe in excellent children’s dental health and my two children brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. I don’t agree with any unnecessary additives being put in our water.
Waimate District Council
Tom  OConnor Don’t know I have no position on the efficacy or otherwise of fluoride. I strongly object to DHBs being able to impose mass medication, good or bad, on the community and take away the right of people to decide for themselves.
Waipa District Council
Wayvne Gulliver No No No A personal choice
Waiarapa DHB
Stephen Butcher Yes Yes No Other Naturally occurring fluoride is bound to calcium and does not change the equilibrium of fluoride in the human body. Hydrofluorosilicic acid in drinking water, by contrast, is a salt which accumulates in the bones. It is removed from fertilizer because stock would otherwise suffer a “failure to thrive.” Why do we imagine that such a harmful chemical might be good for our children? Surely our children should not be a dump for industrial waste. My opinion is that the aim is good teeth – and there are safe ways of achieving that aim without the side effects of fluoride.
Rick Long No Yes No Decided by DHBs
Wairoa District Council
benita cairns Yes No No A personal choice I do not believe in mass medicating as we are unable to control any detrimental effects and the right to freedom of choice is taken away.  However we need to have a conversation about the effect social deprivation has on poor dental health for NZ children.
Denise Whitmore No No No Decided by DHBs As an ex dental nurse I have seen teeth in such a bad state from under fives they would have had trouble eating. If fluoride prevents even one  youngster going through that it is worth it.
Kurawari Panere Yes Yes No A personal choice I believe that the people should decide not Councils, DHBs or Central Government. It affects us all so we should all have our say as long as we are completely informed.
Waitaki District Council
Stephen Wesselingh Yes No No A personal choice I’m not convinced about the case for fluoride and we see time and time again these so called experts can not be trusted to give us good honest advise.
Richard Vinbrux Yes No No A personal choice I do oppose fluoridated water on principle. Mass medication on all levels is a violation of personal freedom. Everyone who believes in the benefits of fluoridation should have free fluoride tablets available, but to force it on people is just wrong. I would also also oppose other force feeding of supposedly beneficial substances.
  Prescott No Yes Yes A central Government decision
Hugh Perkins Don’t know Yes Yes A personal choice
Glen perham No Yes No A personal choice I beleive fluride should be only taken by people by age to make there own rational decisions .it is exactly the same as many vaccines we are now forcing our childern to take I am not anti vaccine there are many that are truly brilliant life savers like polio measles etc where as others like hpv etc we know too little about and many people are being made very ill from them and some countries are looking at suing the drug companies over it.i have witnessed the trauma first hand of seeing a parent being called into school to see there child who had a reaction to an unnecessary booster shot only to be told sorry you are too late your child has passed away,do these storys get published in paper…no suppressed buy media and drug companies
Waitemata DHB
Michelle Clayton Yes Yes Yes Other I think their needs to be greater community consultation about this before decisions are made. While there appear to be some benefits for some people, not everyone benefits and are there better ways of improving dental care that would be more successful and mean that we do not have to have flouridated water , the long term risks of which are not fully known.
Edward Benson-Cooper Don’t know Yes No Decided by DHBs I have always had mix feelings in regards to fluoridation in water. I think there are certain ethical issues with adding it such as informed consent and I believe it is only a band-aid to a much bigger problem, which is sugary drinks/food and poor dental hygiene.   If it was to be removed, I don’t believe it should be done without first implementing a replacement program. The Scottish CHILDSMILE Programme and the Danish NEXO Programme look like promising alternatives worth investigating especially if it can save money and achieve better results.
Norm McKenzie No No No Decided by local councils Fluoride is added to Auckland’s drinking water to achieve a concentration of 0.7 mg/L. The Ministry recommends that the fluoride content for drinking water in New Zealand be in the range of 0.7–1.0 mg/L. The maximum acceptable value (MAV) of fluoride in drinking water is 1.5 mg/L. Fluoride levels are closely monitored to ensure that these requirements are met. Fluoride is added to drinking water by way of Hydrofluorosilicic  acid. The chemical is purchased from reputable suppliers who have quality control measures in place to ensure that the supplied chemicals meet required quality standards. The control measures used include:   Fluoride is delivered at a specified concentration so there is no risk of dosing a more concentrated solution   Treatment plants utilise continuous on-line instruments to monitor fluoride levels in the treated water  Samples are also collected for laboratory analysis to supplement our on-line monitoring   Alarms are triggered if the fluoride concentration deviates from the control limits   Fluoride is added to Auckland’s treated water supplies at the request of Auckland’s legacy councils (prior to Auckland Council integration). Historically, councils in the greater Auckland region have held their own public referenda on water fluoridation, where some communities have voted to add fluoride into their water and others have voted not to. Currently, Onehunga is the only Auckland metropolitan area where fluoride is not added.  Fluoride is added to drinking water for oral health reasons (i.e. prevention of tooth decay), as per guidelines set by the Ministry of Health. Fluoride occurs naturally in groundwater supplies and is also present in a large number of food and beverage products.
Wanganui District Council
William Osborne Yes Yes No A personal choice Thank you for persuading to educate the community on this issue
frog falconer No No No Other filter the ”naturaul” water , no chemical crap 100%!!!
Christie Teki Don’t know No No Other
Alan Abbott Yes No A personal choice
David Bennett Yes Yes No Decided by local councils I think the advent to fluoride toothpaste, has to some degree, replaced the need to fluoridate drinking water. But its interesting that in bottled drinking water, I haven’t seen any offered with fluoride?
CHARLIE ANDERSON Yes Yes No A personal choice Don’t poison my water with fluoride
Jill Sheehy Yes No No Other Q 4) It sounds logical, common sense and that is what toothpaste is for.    Q 6) Nothing should be added to our drinking tap water. A personal choice would be to purchase fluoride tablets or other substitute.