Help with rates for Waipā low-income households
More Waipā residents could be eligible for a rebate of up to $805, following changes to the Government’s Rate Rebate Scheme.
The scheme, run by the Department of Internal Affairs, helps low-income homeowners and retirement village residents pay their council rates. So far this year, over 950 people have applied for a rebate.
Waipā District Council finance manager Jolanda Hechter said the support makes a real difference for hundreds of local households. “Last year, more than $1 million went back into the pockets of 1387 eligible Waipā ratepayers.
“This year, even more people are likely to be eligible for a rebate with a welcome change in the income thresholds. Couples whose sole income is the New Zealand superannuation can now apply for the maximum rebate amount.”
To be eligible, you need to be living in the property you have been paying rates on and be listed as the ratepayer on the Rating Information Database (RID). The total household income limit to receive the maximum rebate is now $32,210, or $45,000 for SuperGold Card holders.
“Even if your income is slightly higher, don’t rule yourself out just yet. You may still qualify for a partial rebate, depending on your living situation,” Hechter said.
When applying, applicants will need:
- Information about their annual income for the previous financial year (including incomes of any spouse/partner or joint homeowner that lives with them)
- Waipā District Council rates, water rates, and Waikato Regional Council rate amounts.
- If eligible, a copy of your SuperGold Card.
If you don’t have those handy, don’t stress, council staff can retrieve rates and some income information.
“If you think you might qualify, or know someone who could, come and see us. We can help check eligibility, gather the right details and even fill in the form.”
Applications for the current rating year (July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026) close on June 30, 2026.
For more information or to download an application form, visit waipadc.govt.nz/ratesrebates.
