What’s the penalty if I don’t pay my rates? 05 July 2023 03:43 Updated A 10% penalty rate will be added to any rates amounts not paid by 20 October unless payment is being made by direct debit. Related articles What happens if I don’t pay on time or don’t pay my rates? When do penalties apply? What happens if I owe rates through my city / district council? Can I get my penalty removed? Why does the Regional Council use te reo Māori in its communications?