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Rates Remission - In Cases of Land Affected by Natural Calamity

Published 07 August 2026
Rates Rates Remission
Rates Graph Generic Panel

This remission category enables Council to assist ratepayers affected by events outside of their control which effects their ability to use any rating unit owned by them that is the consequence of a natural calamity.

A formal application is required annually for consideration, and this application should outline the reasons for which you are seeking a remission. The application will be investigated and the applicant will receive written response from Council about the outcome.

In the event whereby an applicant is not satisfied with the response, the applicant can request further review in writing and the application will be referred to Council for its consideration. The outcome will be notified within 10 working days of the decision being made.

Click Here a full copy of the Rates Remission Policy or contact our Customer Services Team on 0800 932 4357 or 07 878 0800.

Criteria and Extent of Remissions

Where an application for rates remission due to land affected by natural calamity is received, Council may remit all or part of the rates relating to a rating unit. Any remission granted will apply to the current rating year.

  • Application must be made by the ratepayer within 3 months of the event

  • The rating unit must be unusable or uninhabitable as a result of the calamity

  • All applications must be in writing and supported by documentary evidence as to the extent of the damage

  • For properties that are unable to be used now or in the future, or where access has been prohibited by WDC, rates remission will be granted for 3 years or until the restriction imposed by WDC has been removed

  • In the event of the rating unit being permanently eroded and where the rating unit now forms part of the coastal marine area, the Council may grant permanent remission of all rates and penalties charged in the financial year in which the event occurred and the years following the event

  • Onus is on the ratepayer to advise WDC if the use of the property has not been restored, and to apply for remission by 30 April prior to the commencement of the rating year for which remission is sought. 

  • For future years applications are required annually

Remission of Rates in Cases of Land Affected by Natural Calamity - PDF Application