The Rates Rebate Scheme

The Rates Rebate Scheme is a Government funded scheme designed to benefit home owners on low incomes.

The current income abatement threshold for this rating year (1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024) is $30,100.00 and the maximum rebate allowed is $750.00. Although a ratepayer's income might exceed the income threshold, a rates rebate could still be available, depending on the rates amount and number of dependants.

The Rates Rebate scheme is also available to people who own a property under a Licence to Occupy contract.

Please visit the Rates Rebate section of the Ministry of Internal Affairs' website, or use the Rates Rebate electronic calculator to assess your eligibility.

Council staff are available to assist you with scheme details and forms. We encourage ratepayers to take advantage of this government initiative.

To qualify for a rebate the following criteria apply:

• You must be the legal ratepayer for the property.
• The property is your usual place of residence as at 1 July 2023.
• The property is not used principally for commercial, industrial, business or farming purposes.
• You must apply between 1 July 2023 and 30 June 2024.

When applying for a rebate or checking eligibility, you should have available:

• Your income in the last tax year (1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023).
• Your partner or joint homeowner's income, if he/she lives with you.
• Your Kawerau District Council rates information.
• Your Bay of Plenty Regional Council rates information.

Once you have received your first Rates Instalment Invoice you may apply for a rebate.

Applications must be made each year for the current rating period. Visit the Rates Rebate section of the Ministry of Internal Affairs' website for more information on the scheme and downloadable copies of the application form. Hard copies of the form are also available from the Council Office located at 2 Ranfurly Court, Kawerau.