Rates Rebates

If you own your home and are on a low income, you may be eligible for a rates rebate for the 2026/27 rating year.

For the period 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027, the Government may contribute up to $830 towards your rates bill, depending on:

• your household income
• the amount of rates you are charged
• the number of dependents living with you
• whether you hold a SuperGold card.

To qualify for a rates rebate you must have been living in your own home on 1 July 2026, and it must be your usual place of residence. Your name must also appear on the rates bill.

Even if your income is too high to qualify for a full rebate, you may still be eligible for a partial rebate. We encourage you to check – to be sure you don’t miss out.

Income threshold and rebate amounts for the 2026 rating year:

From 1 July 2026, the income threshold to be eligible for the maximum rebate for SuperGold Cardholders and their households will be raised from $45,000 to $46,400 and from $32,210 to $33,210 for every other ratepayer.

The maximum rebate will also increase from $805 to $830.

How to apply

• If you receive your rates notice by post and received a rebate last year, you will receive an application form in the post with your rates notice.
• If you receive your rates notice by email, there will be a link to the application form included in the email.
• You can also collect a printed copy of the application form from the Waimate District Council office at 125 Queen Street, Waimate.

For more information and to apply online, visit www.govt.nz/rates-rebates.

If you need assistance, please contact Council on rates@waimatedc.govt.nz, phone 03 689 0000, or pop into Council reception.

Applications close on 30 June 2027 for the 2026/27 rating year.