The doors to our Whitianga and Paeroa offices will be closed for the summer break from 4pm on Friday, 20 December, while our Taupō and Hamilton offices will close for the summer break at 1pm on Tuesday, 24 December. All offices will reopen on Monday, 6 January 2025. To report air or water pollution, unsafe water activities in or on a river, lake or harbour, or make a general enquiry or information request during this time, call us 24/7 on 0800 800 401.

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Payment dates, options and penalties

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  3. Payment dates, options and penalties
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Due date

The last date for payment for this year's rates is 31 October 2024.

Penalties

Any rates not paid in full or on an agreed payment arrangement by regular instalment by the due date will have a 10 per cent penalty added.

An additional 10 per cent penalty is applied to the outstanding balance at the beginning of July each year.

A further 10 per cent penalty is added to any rate arrears from the previous rating year that are not paid within six months of the July penalty being added.

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

    Direct debit

  • 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

     

    Set up your direct debit payments using our online form Complete and send back a paper copy of the direct debit set-up form

    • Internet banking

    Credit and debit cards

How you can pay your rates - counter or phone banking

    Counter payments

  • 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. 

    • Phone banking