Buying guide
Council rates explained: a home owner’s guide
(Including average rates by city)

AI summary
Council rates are a tax property owners pay to fund local services like waste collection and parks. Your bill is calculated based on your property's Capital Value (CV), which is determined by a ratings valuation (RV) every three years.
Some properties may also incur targeted rates for specific services. Low-income homeowners might be eligible for a rates rebate to reduce their bill. Average annual residential rates include:
- Auckland: $2,825
- Wellington: $2,972
- Christchurch: $2,998
What are council rates?
How are city council rates calculated?
Homeowners pays rates based on their location and the value of their property.
Your ratings valuation is based on three things:
What about targeted rates?
What is a rates rebate?
Paying rates is easy. Most councils allow you to do it online.
How do I pay rates?
How much should I expect to pay for council rates?
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