People in Kaitaia and Kaikohe are against a bid to re-introduce fluoridation in their towns.
A survey of households in both communities has found a sizeable majority opposed to the practice - which was introduced three years ago as a trial, then stopped.
In light of the survey, the Far North District Council says it will not resume fluoridation in the district.
The council says it may have to repay a subsidy of more than $200,000, provided by Northland Health for fluoridation equipment.
But if the council is forced to pay, it says the costs can be met from a contingencies budget.
