Rates Rebate Scheme
About the Rates Rebate Scheme
The Rates Rebate Scheme is a partial refund to ease rates bills for low-income people.
It provides financial relief for those who own their own home and live in that home. It includes people living in retirement villages, but does not apply to rental or holiday homes or commercial premises. The scheme is funded by the Government and council administers it on their behalf.
Eligibility criteria
Eligibility and how much you get depends on:
- the total amount of rates you pay
- how many dependants live with you
- your total household income before tax
- the ownership of your property
- your living situation
- if you have a SuperGold card.
Even if you can only meet some of the requirements, you may still be eligible for a rebate.
How much you can earn
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
SuperGold cardholders and their households can have income up to $46,400 and get the maximum annual rebate amount of $830. A couple who only get NZ superannuation earn around this amount. Cardholders with households whose income is more than $45,000 may still get a rebate but it will be less than the full amount.
Find out more about eligibility on the New Zealand Government website.
Rates rebate calculator
To see an estimate of how much you might get as a rates rebate, use the New Zealand Government online rates rebate calculator.
The calculator will ask how much you will pay in rates this year and you can find that information here:
When to apply for a rates rebate
For the 2026-27 rating year (1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027), you need to apply by 30 June 2027.
If you received a rates rebate last year, we will send you an application form for this year with your first rates invoice in August. You can apply as soon as you get your August invoice.
Otherwise you can download and print the PDF application form below, or pick up a form from your nearest council customer service centre.
To submit your application you will need the following information:
- A fully completed application form.
- Proof of income summary from Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) or an employer and details of any other income including bank interest, share earnings and income from other sources etc. Please make sure that the income you provide is money received, before tax, for the most recent full tax year.
- Your Taupō District Council and Waikato Regional Council rates totals.
You can submit your application in person or someone else can bring it in for you to a council customer service centre, or alternatively you can email the completed form to info@taupo.govt.nz.
Please note that you are still required to sign your name (either with pen or digital signature). A typed signature is not acceptable.
Further information
For more information on rates rebates visit the New Zealand Government website and see The Rates Rebate Act 1973.
