Media release

29 August 2012

Aucklanders reminded first rates instalment due

Auckland ratepayers are reminded that payment of their first rates instalment should be received by Auckland Council by 5pm, Thursday, August 30.

The deadline is made clear on the rates notices that Aucklanders received at the start of the month.

However, the council is issuing the reminder to ensure as many people as possible avoid a 10 per cent penalty for overdue rates.

“Council is focussed on implementing the move to one rating system for Auckland in the fairest possible manner. We have also worked hard to ensure the process for paying your rates is as smooth as possible,” says Chief Finance Officer Andrew McKenzie.

“The move to a single rating system means there will be a variety of ups and downs for ratepayers. Overall council has delivered an average rates rise of just 3.6 per cent, which compares to the 9 per cent rise we faced after the amalgamation, and an average 5.7 per cent rise per annum over the past seven years of the former councils.

“We have also worked to ensure that those people who are eligible for rates postponements, rebates and remissions have been able to access them, including the newly-introduced remission scheme for residents of license to occupy retirement villages.”

The easiest way to pay your rates is by direct debit. You can set up a direct debit authority at any time of the year. Payments can also be made online with credit and debit cards, or by cash, cheque or eftpos at most PostShops or BNZ stores. If you have any outstanding queries regarding your current rates charges, it is advised to still pay on time. Any corrections or adjustments that need to be made will be reimbursed by cheque.

A number of different options are available to help you manage the payment of your rates including rates rebate, remission and postponement schemes. For more information on any of these options, visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/rates.

Your rates pay for services and assets in your community and across the region that make Auckland a great place to live, such as parks, libraries, transport and economic development. Government legislation required for the introduction of a single rating system for Auckland based on capital value.

Ends

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