Features

Rates

Stratford District rates are due on the last Wednesday of every quarter:

29 August 2012
28 November 2012
27 February 2013
29 May 2013

Payments can be made by:

Direct Debit
Automatic payment
Internet banking
Cheque
Cash
Eftpos

To set up direct debits, automatic payment or to use internet banking, we have forms with the relevant information here.

For any further enquiries regarding rates please contact Council (06) 765 6099 and ask for our Rates Officer.

How much are my rates?

You can contact us to find out how much your rates are, or search on Taranaki Regional Xplorer.

Taranaki Regional Xplorer

Taranaki Regional Xplorer is designed to provide public access (especially for ratepayers) to District and Regional Council information. It provides aerial photos of the region as well as Property Search, Rating Information database, and Rating Valuation functions.

Regional Council Rates

The Stratford District Council has an agreement with the Taranaki Regional Council (TRC) to collect rates on the TRC’s behalf.

The Stratford District Council's role in this matter is as collection agency only. If you have any queries regarding the Regional Council rates or services please direct them to the Taranaki Regional Council, phone (06) 765 7127.

Penalties

Pursuant to Section 57 and 58 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002 the following penalties on unpaid rates will be applied:

A charge of 10% on so much of any installment that has been assessed after 1 July and which remains unpaid after the due date for that installment.

A charge of 10% on so much of any rates levied before 1 July which remain unpaid on 10 July or such later date as required under Section 58 (1)(b)(ii).

A continuing additional penalty of 10% on so much of any rates levied before 1 July which remain unpaid six months after the previous penalty was added.

Penalties imposed are exempt from GST.

Ratepayers are reminded that payments must be received in the Council Office by 4:30pm on the final payment date.

Stratford District Council takes no responsibility for delays in the mail service or for the circumstances beyond council's control.

Rates Rebates

The Rates Rebate Scheme was established in 1973 to provide a subsidy to low-income homeowners on the cost of their rates. The Government is increasing the rates rebate thresholds – more people than ever before will be eligible for the rebate.

The following changes come into effect from 1 July 2012:

Maximum rebate increased from $580 to $590

Income threshold increased from $23,340 to $23,650

This means the income threshold for a full rates rebate for the 2012/13 year is $23,650. Homeowners can apply for the new rebate from 1 July 2012, for the 2012/13 rating year. The closing date for applications is 30 June 2013.

You can download an application form here or pick one up from the Council office on Miranda Street, Stratford. Phone (06) 765 6099 for more information.