A garden tap weeping at its base is one of the most common minor plumbing issues NZ homeowners face, and in many cases it's a straightforward DIY fix. The leak usually comes from a worn O-ring or a loose/deteriorated packing nut — both of which are inexpensive and easy to replace with basic tools.
Understanding Why Your Tap Is Weeping
When water seeps out around the base of the tap handle or spindle (rather than from the spout), it almost always points to one of two culprits:
- Worn O-ring: A small rubber ring that seals the spindle inside the tap body. Over time, UV exposure, water pressure, and general wear cause it to harden or crack.
- Loose or worn packing nut: The packing nut compresses a graphite or rubber packing material around the spindle. If it's loose, tightening it may stop the leak. If the packing is worn, it needs replacing.
- Corroded or cracked tap body: Less common, but if the tap body itself is damaged, replacement is the only fix.
What You'll Need
Step-by-Step: Fixing the Weeping Tap
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate your toby valve (the main water shutoff, usually near the boundary or water meter) and turn it off. Open the garden tap to release any remaining pressure and drain the line. Place a towel or bucket underneath to catch drips.
2. Remove the Tap Handle
Prise off the decorative cap on top of the handle (if present) and undo the screw beneath it. Pull the handle straight off the spindle.
3. Loosen the Packing Nut
Using your adjustable spanner, turn the packing nut anticlockwise to loosen it. Try just snugging it up first (clockwise, about a quarter turn) — sometimes a slightly loose packing nut is all that's causing the weep. Reassemble and test before going further.
4. Remove and Inspect the Spindle
If tightening didn't help, fully unscrew the packing nut and pull out the spindle. Look for:
- The O-ring seated in a groove on the spindle — check if it's flattened, cracked, or hard
- The packing material around the spindle shaft — check if it's worn or missing
5. Replace the O-ring or Packing
- O-ring: Roll the old one off and take it to the hardware store to match the size, or use an assorted O-ring kit. Lightly coat the new O-ring with plumber's grease before fitting.
- Packing: Wrap several layers of PTFE tape clockwise around the spindle shaft as a replacement packing material, or purchase purpose-made packing cord.
6. Reassemble and Test
Reinsert the spindle, hand-tighten the packing nut, then snug it with the spanner (don't overtighten — just firm). Refit the handle, turn the toby back on, and check for leaks. A small amount of moisture may appear briefly; wait a minute to confirm it's stopped.
Is This Restricted Plumbing Work?
In New Zealand, replacing an O-ring or packing on an existing tap is generally considered maintenance that a homeowner can carry out themselves — it does not involve modifying the plumbing system. However, if you need to replace the entire tap or alter any pipework, this becomes restricted sanitary plumbing work under the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act 2006, and must be carried out by a licensed tradesperson registered with the Plumbers Gasfitters & Drainlayers Board (PGDB).
If you're unsure whether your repair crosses into restricted work, check with the PGDB or consult MBIE Building Performance for guidance.
Safety note: Always turn off the water supply before starting any tap repair. Never work on pressurised pipework.
When to Call a Professional
Call a licensed plumber if:
- The tap body is cracked or corroded and needs full replacement
- The leak is coming from the pipework behind the wall or underground
- You're not confident working with the water supply system
- The repair involves modifying or extending pipework in any way
- The weeping returns quickly after your repair, suggesting a deeper issue
A qualified local plumber or handyman can diagnose and fix the problem quickly. You can find trusted tradespeople in your area at tradedirectory.co.nz.
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