Rates rebate deadline is nearly here – applications close June 30

Waipā homeowners and retirement village residents are urged to check if they qualify for a rates rebate before applications close at the end of the month.

More than $1.1 million has already gone back to local households this year through the Government’s Rates Rebates Scheme, which helps low-income residents with the cost of their council rates.

Waipā District Council wants to make sure that no one who qualifies misses out.

Acting chief financial officer Jolanda Hechter said there is still time to apply. “The support can make a real difference for local households, especially when budgets are stretched and every dollar counts.

“So far, we’ve had 1490 applications this rating year, and we’d love to see more people benefit from the scheme - there’s still time to do so.”

Changes to the scheme last year mean more Waipā residents may now qualify for a rebate of up to $805.

The scheme is open to low-income homeowners of any age, as well as retirement village residents.

“More people are likely to be eligible now because of changes to the income thresholds. Couples whose only income is New Zealand Superannuation can now apply for the maximum rebate amount,” said Hechter.

To be eligible, you must live in the property you are paying rates on and be listed as the ratepayer on the Rating Information Database. The total household income limit to receive the maximum rebate is now $38,000, or $48,000 for SuperGold Card holders.

Hechter said people should still consider applying even if their income is a little over the threshold.

“It’s worth checking, even if your income is slightly higher. You may still qualify for a partial rebate, depending on your situation.”

To apply, you will need:

• information about your annual income for the previous financial year, including the income of any spouse, partner or joint homeowner who lives with you
• your Waipā District Council rates, water rates and Waikato Regional Council rates amounts
• a copy of your SuperGold Card, if you have one.

Don’t have all of that handy? No worries. Council staff can help find rates information and some income details.

“If you think you might qualify, or know someone who could, come and see us. We can help check whether you are eligible, gather the right details and even fill in the forms,” Hechter said.

Applications for the current rating year, from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026, close on June 30.

If you have applied since July 1 last year, you cannot apply again until the next rating year.

Reminder letters will be sent to previous applicants when the new rating year begins. We can also add eligible homeowners who have moved to Waipā to the mailing list so they can be informed when to apply in the future.

For more information or to download an application form, visit waipadc.govt.nz/ratesrebates.