Apply for a rates rebate

If you’re applying for a rates rebate, you’ll need to bring proof of your gross income for the tax year 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026.

On NZ Super? Bring your SuperGold card along.
Trouble booking online? 
Give us a call on 349 0001 and we’ll get you sorted. 

If you'd like help with your application, please email rates@whanganui.govt.nz

The Rates Rebate Scheme provides a rebate of up to $830 for ratepayers on a low income who were paying rates for the home in which they were living on 1 July 2026.

How is my rebate calculated?

Your rebate is calculated based on your income, rates and the number of dependants living with you.

If you are a SuperGold card holder (receiving the pension), the income eligibility for a rebate is $46,400If you receive New Zealand superannuation (the pension), you are required to provide evidence that you have a SuperGold card. 

If you are a non-SuperGold card holder, the income eligibility for a rebate is $33,210

However, if your income exceeds either of these amounts, you could still be entitled to a rebate depending on the total costs of your rates and the number of dependants. 

Applications close on 30 June 2027.

Find out if you're eligible

Use this rates rebate calculator provided by the government.

You will need the following information when you use the calculator:

  • the total rates you’ll pay for the current rating year: 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027
  • the number of dependants living with you on 1 July 2026

While rates are paid quarterly, the estimate that the calculator shows is an annual rebate.

Rates rebate calculator

What information do I need to provide?

  • If you receive New Zealand superannuation (the pension), you are now required to provide evidence that you have a SuperGold card
  • Accurate information about your income (and that of any spouse/partner and/or joint home owner who lives with you) for the tax year ended 31 March 2026
  • Details of all Gross Income (BEFORE TAX) – 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026 financial year
  • Personal Tax Summary – available from Inland Revenue
  • Wages & Salary – (Tax Summary from IRD/employer)
  • Work & Income Benefit & Superannuation – (If your sole income is NZ Superannuation you do not need to provide proof of income)
  • Additional Allowances - Additional to the benefit e.g Accommodation Benefit – (from WINZ)
  • In work Tax credits, Minimum Family Tax Credits & Parental Tax Credits – (from IRD)
  • Gross Interest/Dividends earned between 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026
  • Rental Income/Shares/Overseas Benefits or income
  • Your Horizons Regional Council rates bill.

Where to obtain proof of income

Ministry of Social Development – New Zealand Superannuation enquiries  Freephone: 0800 552 002
Email: seniors@msd.govt.nz  
Work and Income – people under 65 enquiries Freephone: 0800 559 009
Inland Revenue – Income Tax enquiries Freephone: 0800 775 247
Website: www.ird.govt.nz
Working for Families – Tax Credit enquiries: Freephone: 0800 227 773 

Where do I find an application form?

If you think you may be eligible, download a property rates rebate application form

If you live in a retirement village and want a property rates rebate, you will need to complete a declaration(PDF, 595KB).

How do I make an application?

In person

Please make an appointment using the appointment calendar button at the bottom of this page.

By email

You can download an application form and then send to us for processing along with the appropriate supporting documents to our email address: rates@whanganui.govt.nz

Please scan your forms before emailing them to us.

 

By post

Send your completed property rates rebate application form, along with supporting documents, to:

Whanganui District Council
PO Box 637
WHANGANUI 4540

Make an appointment for a rates rebate using this calendar

Rates rebate appointment calendar