Rates FAQs

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Got a question about rates?  Find the answer below.

We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions we receive on rates.  If there's anything we've missed, please email us:

rates@qldc.govt.nz

We'll provide you with an answer, then include the question and answer below.

  • There are a number of methods for paying your rates. They include:

    • Direct debit (this is Council's preferred method)

    • Online

    • Internet banking

    • Cash (please do not post cash)

    • Telebanking

    • Credit card

    Read more about payment options here.

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  • Late arrival of a rates invoice due to the wrong postal address, or delays in the mail service is not the Council's responsibility. The Council places reminder advertisements in the local papers but as a property owner, you should be aware that rates are paid quarterly. If you notice that your invoice has not arrived, please phone the Council to ensure the correct postal address is on file and to find out what rates are outstanding.

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  • The Council may not have received the Notice of Change of Ownership. Please contact your solicitor in the first instance.

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  • Rates rebates are a subsidy to assist low income earners with the cost of their rates. If your combined income is less than $28,080 then you are eligible to apply. Please note that you may still receive a rebate if your income is over $28,080.

    Read more on this here.

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  • If the property is rented on a residential lease, then it will not affect your rates. If you are renting your property on a nightly, weekly or monthly basis for accommodation purposes then it will affect your rates.

    Read more on this here.

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  • No. The Council must receive a Notice of Change of Ownership from a solicitor before any changes can be made to the title.

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  • Yes. Please advise us in writing when you change your postal address and we will update our records.

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  • Bank/Branch: BNZ
    Queenstown Account no: 02 0948 0002000 000
    Name: QLDC
    Swift Code: BKNZNZ22

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  • Please put your concerns in writing to the Rating Administrator, QLDC, Private Bag 50072, Queenstown 9348 or email:

    rates@qldc.govt.nz

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    • Bank Drafts - Council accepts bank drafts drawn on a New Zealand Bank.

    • Credit Card - You can now pay rates online using your Visa or Mastercard.

    Note: Some banks may remit money to its agent in New Zealand meaning they will charge a fee to process your transaction.

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  • Your solicitor should work out the rates owing and negotiate for payment with the purchasers solicitor.

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  • Please send your request to the Rating Administrator, QLDC, Private Bag 50072, Queenstown 9348 or email: directdebit@qldc.govt.nz

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  • Valuations are undertaken every three years on behalf of the council by Quotable Value NZ Ltd. When valuations are released, you are given the opportunity to dispute it directly with Quotable Value NZ Ltd before they are finalised and used for setting the rates.

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  • Rates must be paid by property owners to help ensure that the district is run effectively and to help provide services and facilities for use by the community.

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  • Instalment 1: 1 July - 30 September
    Instalment 2: 1 October - 31 December
    Instalment 3: 1 January - 31 March
    Instalment 4: 1 April - 30 June

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  • Rates on individual properties will vary according to a number of factors. These factors include location, services received, valuation and the primary use of the property.

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  • Yes, you are entitled to put your property under a Trust. We are unable to record the owner details as a Trust. Ownership of a property will be recorded under the Trustees names. Council's records must reflect those that are registered with LINZ.

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  • Please put your application in writing to the Rating Administrator, QLDC, Private Bag 50072, Queenstown 9348 or email:

    rates@qldc.govt.nz

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  • The rates are set every year based on the budget requirements of the Council's annual plan or Council community plan. This may mean that rates increase to fund services and activities required by the community. Rates don't go up automatically every year, in fact they may decrease or remain the same.

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  • This means there are two rateable units on the property.

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  • The revenue from the tourism promotion rate is used to help fund the activities of Lake Wānaka Tourism, Destination Queenstown and the Arrowtown Promotion Association. Only Wānaka property owners will pay a tourism promotion rate towards Lake Wānaka Tourism and Wakatipu / Arrowtown property owners towards Destination Queenstown and the Arrowtown Promotion Association.

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  • Yes. You can choose to have your rates invoice emailed to you. If you would like to take up this environmentally friendly option, please email:

    rates@qldc.govt.nz

    Please note that if you choose to have your rates notice emailed, it will not be posted as well.

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