Rates Rebate Scheme
We are doing rates differently this year
In 2024 we won’t be sending you a rates notice on 1 August as usual. The first instalment of rates is being sent on 1 November 2024. For this reason, rates rebate applications can only be processed after 1 November 2024.
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
New threshold amounts for 2024-25 rating year
From 1 July 2024, the maximum annual rebate increases from $750 to $790. The abatement threshold increases from $30,100 to $31,510 income for the year to March 2024. The changes reflect movement in the Consumer Price Index.
- Income threshold is $31,510.
- Maximum allowable rates rebate is $790.
If you earn more than $31,510 you still may be eligible for a rebate.
Rates rebate calculator
A quick way for you to check your eligibility is to use the New Zealand Government online rates rebate calculator.
You only need to fill in three fields; your total gross income, number of dependants and your total Taupō District Council and Waikato Regional Council rates.
- Check your Taupō District Council rates
- Check your Waikato Regional Council rates
Applying for a rates rebate
The closing date for 2024-25 applications is 30 June 2025.
Rates rebate application forms are sent out with rates invoices in October 2024, to those who applied for a rebate during the 2023-24 year. Otherwise you can request an application form to be posted to you, or download and print the PDF application form yourself.
To submit your application you will need the following information:
- A fully completed application form.
- Proof of income summary from 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 tax year 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024.
- 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 Council directly 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.
