News

Money back in South Auckland ratepayers' pockets

Ross Robertson

28.02.2007

The average rates rebate received by South Auckland households is around two and a half times that received before changes were made to the scheme last July.

The latest figures were released today by Manukau East MP Ross Robertson.

Eligible South Auckland* households have received on average a rates rebate of $456 compared with around $165 for the 2005/06 financial year.

Across the country since July, Kiwi households have received over $41 million in rates rebates. This compares with just under $700,000 for the whole of 2005-06, and represents a sixty-fold increase in rebates so far this financial year.

"The improved rates rebates scheme has proved very successful, with 2605 South Auckland households receiving a total of $1,187,698 in rates rebates since 1 July 2006," Ross Robertson said.

"The improved scheme is making a real difference for many local families. If you think you could be eligible for a rebate and you haven't yet applied, I would urge you to check with the local council."

Application forms are available from local councils and on the rates rebates website, www.ratesrebates.govt.nz.

Last year's key changes to the rates rebates scheme included:

· Maximum rebate increased from $200 to $500;

· In most cases the income threshold to get a full rebate increased from $7,400 to $20,000. Many of those earning more can still claim a rebate depending on their rates bill. For example, a married couple who received NZ Superannuation of $24,456 and paying annual rates of $1,746 or more would still be entitled to a maximum rates rebate of $500;

· increased additional income allowance for each dependent from $156 to $500.

This year the government's Rates Inquiry will look at the factors driving the steep rates increases which have been of such concern to superannuitants and others on fixed and modest incomes.

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