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Due date

The last date for payment for this year's rates was 31 October 2023.

Penalties

If rates are not paid in full by the due date, or if you have not made a payment arrangement agreed with Waikato Regional Council, the following penalties will be charged on rates outstanding:

  • 6 July 2023 - 10 per cent penalty applied to all arrears unpaid. 
  • 1 November 2023 - 10 per cent penalty applied to all current year's rates unpaid.
  • 8 January 2024 - 10 per cent penalty applied to all arrears unpaid. 

Spreading payments

You can pay your invoice off over the year and you will not incur any penalties, if arrangements are made. Just contact our Rates team to set up a payment amount. See below for payment options.

If you're worried about your rates payment, please contact our friendly Rates team. We're here to help.

Payment options

There are a number of ways you can pay your rates, Have a look a the options below, and pick the one that best suits you.

Please note, that we no longer accept cheque payments.

This is due to changes taking effect across the banking sector. We stopped accepting cheques from 30 April 2021.

How you can pay your rates - direct debit, internet banking, or credit/debit card

  • What is the difference between direct debit and an automatic payment?

    Direct debit is designed to make payment easier for the ratepayer.  You select the frequency and the start date of the payment and it is drawn from your account for you.  Each year the payment will rollover and recalculate, the new direct debit amount will be displayed on your new invoice.  There are no fees for this service.

    Automatic payments are for fixed amounts on a regular frequency and can only be changed by you through the bank – sometimes at a fee. The amount may need to be changed and the references given will need to be updated yearly.

    Can I withdraw from the service at anytime?
    Yes you can withdraw at any time – please call our Rates Team to arrange the cancellation.  We need you to contact us at least two working days before so we can action your request.

    How much does it cost me to pay by direct debit?
    The Waikato Regional Council does not charge a processing fee. However, please check with your bank to see how their fees are applied.  

    Please note: Direct debit payments are not available with credit cards.

     

    Set up regular automated payments at a frequency that suits you.

    Frequency options

    Weekly – Thursday
    Fortnightly – Thursday
    Monthly – 20 of the Month
    Quarterly – 20 August, November, February and May
    Annual – the last working day of October is the last date for payment

     

How you can pay your rates - counter or phone banking

  • Call into any Waikato Regional Council office

    We have offices in Hamilton, Taupō, Paeroa and Whitianga.  You can also call our rates team on Waikato Regional Council's freephone 0800 800 401.

    We accept Eftpos payments but no longer accept cash or cheques.

    Please note that cashier hours are 8am to 4.45pm.  
    Find out more information about our office locations and hours.

    New Zealand Post 

    You can also pay your rates by cash or Eftpos at your local New Zealand Post/ bill payment agency.