Cyclone Gabrielle recovery support

A Mayoral relief fund has been established to assist those affected by Cyclone Gabrielle. Please click on the link below for information on how to contribute to the fund and how to apply for assistance. Other sources of assistance are also listed.

Cyclone Gabrielle relief funding

You Are Here : Home / Our services/ Rates / Property rates

Property rates

The Council charges rates and fees to pay for the activities and services it provides. You can read about these in our Long Term and Annual Plans. Rates are set annually by Council resolution and are charged each financial year (1 July to 30 June). The different types of rates are described below.

Due dates for rates instalments2022/2023

A 10% penalty will be added to any amount of the current instalment remaining unpaid after the due date.

Instalment	Due date
1	20 August 2022
2	20 November 2022
3	20 February 2023
4	20 May 2023

Common questions and answers

What is my rates balance?

Here are two options for you to find out how much you need to pay.

You can create a request to find out your balance and when it is due, and we will let you know. Make sure you include your contact details.
If you are a registered online user you can log in and view your rates information.
If you are not a registered online user, you can sign up to become one over on this page.

What am I getting for my rates dollar?

What are General Rates?

General rates are charged on all rateable properties and are used to fund general activities. Several components determine what the general rates are.

Land value.
Land usage (general, commercial).
Units of Use (fixed amount per separately-used or inhabited part of the property (SUIP)).

What are Targeted Rates?

Targeted rates are charged to the properties/owners who are in the 'area of benefit' for a particular service or activity. Types of targeted rates are shown below.

Services

Sewerage
Water
Stormwater

Activities

Bay of Islands Recreation Centre rate
Hupara Road Sealing rate
Kaitaia Business District rate
Paihia Central Business District rate

Why are Northland Regional Council rates included?

We collect rates on behalf of the Northland Regional Council and these are detailed on your rates notices. These rates are set by Northland Regional Council.

What are the rates, due dates and penalties for 2021-22?

During the 24 June 2021 Council meeting, the Far North District Council adopted rates, due dates and penalties for 2021-2022. Click on the PDF link to read the meeting minutes and rates for 2021-22.

Supporting links

30/06 Council meeting minutes

How often are property valuations done?

Property valuations are done every three years. After you receive your new property revaluation you will have a limited time to make an objection to your land or capital value. Visit our property valuations page to find out the latest information.

How can I find out what my rates will be next year?

Council updates the Rating Information Database in May each year with estimated rates for individual properties for the next rating year beginning 1 July. Rates are confirmed and the database is updated again in July.

I think my rates are incorrect. What can I do?

If you believe your rates are incorrect you can contact Council explaining why and we will review your case. If we have undercharged you, legislation does not enable us to backdate charges. If we have overcharged rates on a property, legislation allows us to correct the error in the current year, and up to five years prior.

Why are our rates higher than other districts?

The Far North District has a small rating base relative to its area. It has one of the longest roading networks in the country and many small communities without a large commercial centre to fund the needs of the District.

I cannot afford my rates. What are my options?

If you are on a low income, and own and live at your property then you may be eligible for a Department of Internal Affairs' Rates Rebate Scheme.
If you are over 65, on a low income, and own and live at your property then you may be eligible to apply to postpone your residential rates. For further information read our Residential Rates for Senior Citizens(PDF, 182KB) brochure.
Contact Council to calculate weekly, fortnightly, or monthly payments using our Rates Easy Pay Direct Debit(PDF, 288KB) for your rates or water.

If these options are not available to you and you need help, contact us on 0800 920 029 and ask to speak with our debt management team, to discuss an arrangement to pay all outstanding property rates.

Can somebody else be authorised to act on my behalf?

Yes. Please complete the Authority to Act(PDF, 119KB) on behalf and return it to us either by post or email.

Why is a change of ownership not shown in the rating database?

We require a Notice of Sale to be sent to Far North District Council's property department from your lawyer, in order to update our database.

I have subdivided my property. When will I be rated for separate titles?

Once the titles have been issued by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), and subsequent notification received by Council, the separate valuations will be rated from the next rating year beginning 1 July.