Rates postponement scheme

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Are you a senior citizen and having difficulty paying your rates? Would postponing your rates assist you in staying in your home? Council is offering a new Rates Postponement Scheme for older homeowners that lets you defer paying rates – for the rest of your life or until you sell your home.

Do you qualify

You or your partner must be at least 65 years old (or at least 60 if you are on a benefit) when you apply, and the property must be your usual place of residence.

How much it costs

The cost of the scheme is paid entirely by those whose rates are postponed – it is not subsidised by other ratepayers or funding. In addition to the annual rates, you will also pay:

  • Annual interest at our marginal rate (presently @ 6.75%)
  • Annual levy of 1.25% on balance to pay for scheme management and reserve fund
  • $100 application fee
  • $300 fee for a mandatory session with an independent financial planning adviser

You need pay nothing up front – you pay these costs only when the rates are finally paid. Also worth noting, you can choose to pay your postponed rates at any time you like, without penalty.

Find out more

We’ve put together a brochure that explains the rates postponement scheme in detail, along with an eligibility form. You can get a copy from Nelson City Council at Civic House, or download the Rates Postponement for Senior Ratepayers Brochure (PDF @ 78KB) (97KB PDF).

Contacts for rates enquiries

You can contact Council's Customer Service Team on +64 3 546 0200, Fax +64 3 546 0392 or e-mail rates@ncc.govt.nz

You can also contact the Council offices which operate a 24 hour, seven days a week phone service on 546 0200.

Nelson City Council
Civic House
PO Box 645
110 Trafalgar Street
Nelson
Phone 546 0200 (all hours)
Fax: 546 0239
enquiry@ncc.govt.nz