Our rates remission policy aims to assist people in genuine need by reducing the total rates they must pay or, in some cases, remitting rates in full and setting up an arrangement to assist in paying rates in the future.
Rates remissions will be used for this policy instead of postponement to maintain affordability and prevent debt accumulation.
This means that if the ratepayer is eligible for this remission, they may have no regional council rates to pay. However, their local council may have a different policy, where rates can be postponed and paid later; this will depend on their location.
Ratepayers need to re-apply for this rates remission annually.
What are the criteria?
- Be a natural person (a human, rather than a company or organisation, which are also legal persons).
- Be eligible for the Government Rates Rebate Scheme.
- Not own any other rating unit (excludes interests in multiply owned Māori Land).
- Make an acceptable arrangement for payment of future rates.
The property must:
- Not be vacant.
- Be used solely as a domestic residence.
- Be the normal place of residence of the ratepayer.
Consideration will be given to people who:
- Provide details that they have sought other sources of finance e.g., a mortgage.
- Have sought budget advice and have been given recommendations that are relevant for us to consider.
Still not sure? Contact our rates team on 0800 884 880 to discuss your eligibility for a financial hardship rates remission or complete the form found on the website.