Waiora Essence II Whole House Mains Filter - 2 Stage, 10 Inch Jumbo, Chlorine & Taste Removal NZ

City mains water is treated before it reaches your home — but the chlorine used in that process can leave your water tasting and smelling flat. The Waiora Essence II filters it out.

This is a 2-stage whole house system built for New Zealand homes on town water. Stage one catches sediment — rust flakes, fine particles, and grit from older supply lines. Stage two uses a carbon block to remove chlorine taste and odour. Better-tasting water from every tap in the house.

The twin 10 inch jumbo housings arrive pre-mounted on a powder-coated bracket, ready to go on the wall. Connection is standard 25mm BSP. Filter changes are DIY-friendly with the included housing spanner.

Key specs at a glance

• 2-stage filtration
• Stage 1: 1 micron polyspun sediment filter
• Stage 2: 5 micron carbon block filter
• Housing: 10 inch x 4.5 inch jumbo
• Connection: 25mm BSP
• Cartridge life: 6–12 months
• Bracket: Powder-coated steel
• Warranty: 3 years

Why Kiwi homeowners choose the Essence II

• Removes the chlorine taste and smell from town water
• Catches rust and grit before they reach your dishwasher and washing machine
• Compact footprint — fits in tight spaces under the house or in a utility cupboard
• Simple DIY filter changes — no special tools needed beyond the included spanner
• Pre-mounted and ready to install

How it works

Stage 1 — Sediment

The 1 micron polyspun filter traps fine particles, rust flakes, and grit coming through your mains supply line. This protects Stage 2 and your appliances from build-up over time.

Stage 2 — Carbon Block

The 5 micron carbon block reduces chlorine, chemical tastes, and odours. It's what makes the biggest difference to how your water tastes and smells.

Technical specifications

What's in the box

• Twin 10 inch jumbo housings (pre-mounted)
• 1 micron polyspun sediment filter
• 5 micron carbon block filter
• Housing spanner
• Mounting hardware

Frequently asked questions

Is the Essence II right for my home?

It's designed for New Zealand homes on town (mains) water. If your main concern is chlorine taste, odour, or sediment from older pipes, it's a strong fit. For rainwater or bore water, a different system would suit better — get in touch and we'll point you in the right direction.

Do I need a plumber to install it?

For most customers, yes — a licensed plumber is the safest path and protects your warranty on the plumbing side. That said, the Essence II arrives fully assembled, uses standard 25mm BSP fittings, and mounts with the included hardware. If you're confident with household plumbing, the installation itself is straightforward. If you're not sure, get in touch and we'll help you decide.

How often do I replace the cartridges?

Every 6–12 months, depending on your water quality and how much you use. Higher sediment loads will shorten cartridge life. The system comes with a housing spanner to keep changes quick and clean.

Do I need bypass valves?

They're not included, but they're worth adding. Bypass valves let you isolate the filter during cartridge changes without shutting off water to the rest of the house. Ask us about adding a set when you order.

What does Stage 1 do?

The polyspun filter catches fine sediment — rust flakes, grit, and particles from mains supply lines. It also protects Stage 2 from loading up too fast, which helps both stages last longer.

What does Stage 2 do?

The carbon block reduces chlorine, chemical tastes, and odours. Most customers notice the difference in their drinking water, tea, and coffee straight away.

Will it affect my water pressure?

The 10 inch jumbo housings are designed to maintain good pressure. Keep cartridges replaced on schedule — a clogged cartridge is the most common cause of pressure drop.

What warranty does it come with?

3 years.