This page contains information about the Rates Rebate Scheme which benefits those on low incomes living in their own homes.
Updated:
29/06/2012 1:30 p.m.
The Rates Rebate Scheme was established by the government in 1973 to provide a subsidy to low-income homeowners on the cost of their rates.
The scheme was last reviewed on 31 May 2012 for the 2012-2013 rating year and the maximum rebate increased to $590 with the income threshold increased to $23,650.
Although your income might exceed the income threshold a rates rebate could still be available, depending on the rates amount and number of dependants.
We welcome your enquiries on the Rates Rebate Scheme. Please phone us on +64 9 430 4237 or visit one of our Customer Service Centres for more information.
Each application is judged against criteria set by the Government and you can find out more about the Rates Rebate Scheme by visiting the following website.
Rates Rebate Scheme (Dept of Internal Affairs website) Opens in a new window.
Do I qualify for a rebate?
Follow this link to open the electronic calculator to see if you could be eligible.
Rates Rebate calculator (Dept of Internal Affairs website) Opens in a new window.
Applying for a rebate
Homeowners can apply for the rebate once the first instalment is produced for the new rating year generally after 1 July. You can seek a rebate for the current financial year only, with the closing date for applications being yearly on 30 June.
To apply, come into our customer service centres, no appointment is necessary at this time.
It is helpful if you bring your rates account for the current rating year but we must have information about your income, your partner or joint homeowner's income, if they were living with you on 1 July.
| Any Work and Income benefit for the full year |
No evidence required for main benefit but details of supplements may be required |
| Interest and dividends, personal superannuation or trust income |
Bank, company tax certificate or statements |
| Work and Income benefit for part of the year or ACC earnings |
Information of gross amount received |
| Wages or salary earners |
Gross income. Your employer or IRD can provide figures including details of Working for Families tax credits |
| Self employed or rental income |
Taxable business income (copy of your full business accounts is preferred) including details of Working for Families tax credits |
Application processing time
It will take about 10-15 minutes to complete the form and we will let you know the outcome.
We have additional staff available in July/August just to process your application and we encourage you to come in during this period. Generally if you have had a rebate in the previous rating year, you will be sent a letter inviting you to apply again.
If you are not able to come into our offices, please contact us - we can arrange a staff member to visit at your home to assist with your rebate application.
If you have any questions about the rebate scheme, or the application process please contact us.
Contact us
Council offices - locations and hours of opening