New rebate settings offers money back for more ratepayers.

Published on 28 July 2025

The Government has set the maximum rates rebate at $805 for the 2025/26 rating year.

However, changes to the qualification settings mean more people may qualify for a maximum rebate this year.

Your rates for the 2025/26 year must be higher than $2000 for qualification. There are also two income thresholds - one for those with SuperGold Cardholders and one for those without.

• For SuperGold Cardholders, the income threshold to qualify for the maximum rebate of $805 has been raised from $31,500 to $45,000 – which is about the rate for a couple both receiving superannuation.

• For others, the income threshold to qualify for the maximum rebate of $805 is $32,210.

In both categories, earning more than these thresholds means you may still get a rebate but it will be less than the maximum amount.

You can find out if you qualify for a rates rebate by using the Government’s Rates Rebate Calculator: https://www.govt.nz/browse/housing-and-property/getting-help-with-housing/getting-a-rates-rebate/rates-rebate-calculator/

The NZ Government provides a step-by-step process of how to download a form and apply on their website: https://www.govt.nz/browse/housing-and-property/getting-help-with-housing/getting-a-rates-rebate/rates-rebate-application-form/

Rates rebate forms are available online, or at the Oamaru or Waihemo Library and Service Centres. They must be returned to Council for processing, either in-person or by post.

The Rates Rebate scheme is funded by the NZ Government, but the administration is delegated to Waitaki District Council. You may be contacted by Council to confirm information that is in your application.

ENDS