Water charges to be included in rates rebates calculations

More people could be eligible for rates rebates following a Manukau City Council decision to extend the rates rebate scheme.

Water and wastewater charges, which last year were excluded from rebates calculations following Manukau Water’s change to a council-controlled organisation, will now be included with the council footing the extra cost. (Rates rebates are normally central government-funded but only include direct council rates. The government does not allow for charges from council-owned companies in its rebate scheme; however the recent report from the Rates Inquiry Panel recommends that these charges be included.)

Information about the change and a rebate calculator are available on the council’s website (www.manukau.govt.nz), from the customer centre, or through the call centre (262 8990). People can also apply on-line.

Water and wastewater accounts from 1 July 2006 to 30 June 2007 are included in the calculations, along with Manukau City Council and Auckland Regional Council rates assessments.

Rebates applications can be made any time from now until the end of this financial year – 30 June 2008.