Low-income households may be eligible for partial rates refund

Having trouble paying your rates? You could be eligible for a rebate.

The Government has a Rates Rebate Scheme which provides a partial refund to ease rates bills for low-income New Zealanders owning their own home. Councils administer the scheme on behalf of the Government.

Eligible households can have income up to $33,210 and get the maximum annual rebate amount of $830. Households earning more than this may still get a rebate, but it will be less than the full amount.

SuperGold cardholders and their households can have income up to $46,400 and receive the maximum annual rebate of $830.

SuperGold cardholders earning only NZ Superannuation with rates higher than $2000 will be eligible for the full rebate. SuperGold cardholders earning more than $46,400 may also be entitled to a smaller rebate.

If you received a rates rebate last year, Council will send you an application form for this year with your first rates invoice this month. You can apply as soon as you get your invoice.

For the 2026-27 rating year (1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027), you need to apply by 30 June 2027. Don’t leave it till the last minute! We encourage people to get their application in early as the process can take some time.

Find out more about rates rebates, eligibility and how to apply.