What are rates rebates

A rates rebate is a partial discount on a rates bill — you pay less for your rates.

If you own your home and are on a low income, you may be eligible for a rates rebate.

How the rebate is calculated

Whether you’re eligible and how much you get depends on, for example:

• 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.

Who is eligible to get a rates rebate

Councils look after the rates rebate programme

Rates rebate applications are assessed and approved by councils around New Zealand.

If your application is successful, you will get a rebate.

Your local council will:

• tell you how much your rebate is
• deduct this amount off your rates bill, or
• contact you about your rebate if you’ve already paid your rates in full.

How much you get

The maximum rebate you can get is $790. You may be eligible for all or only part of this amount.

How much you get depends on what you’re entitled to. The council works this out when they assess your application.

How to get the rebate every year

The rebate is not given automatically. You need to apply every year and your application will be fully assessed each time you apply.

As long as you’re eligible, you apply before the deadline and you include the required information, you should get a rebate.

Find out if you’re eligible for a rebate

The rates rebate application may take you some time to complete. Check if you’re eligible before you decide to apply. 

Who is eligible to get a rates rebate

Contact your local council for help

For help with your application or questions about the rebate, contact your local council.

Find your local council — Local Government New Zealand