Object to or challenge a property rates bill

Property rates help us provide services that make Auckland a great place to live and work. If you think we are overcharging you on your rates, there are several ways to let us know.

How to challenge a property rates bill

The amount you pay in property rates is based on a city-wide valuation assessment held every three years. The last general property valuation for Auckland was in May 2024.

After the new property valuations are released to home and business owners, there is a six-week period when you can object to the valuation. Challenging the valuation can have an effect on the amount of property rates you will have to pay.

If you miss this six-week period, then you miss your opportunity to directly challenge the amount of property rates you pay.

Late objections are automatically declined under Section 10 of the Rating Valuations Regulations 1998.

Ratepayers must pay their rates as invoiced to avoid penalty charges. Customers cannot put their rates 'on hold' while a valuation or rates objection is processed.

Challenging the property details on your rates bill

If you think that the property information on your rates notice is wrong (for example, number of separate units on a property) you can correct it by completing our online form to Object to your property's rating information.

You can also use this form if you are charged a targeted rate that you believe does not apply to your property. Another option is to Apply for a reduction of property rates penalties and fixed or targeted charges.

An objection can result in an increase or decrease in the property's value. There is no guarantee that the capital value will be revised because of the objection.

If your property value changes between general revaluations, we will send you a supplementary property valuation.

To learn more, visit Change your property's rating or waste information in our database.

Applying for a reduction in property rates

We offer rates Help for low income households and community groups. Part of this policy allows people to ask for a reduction in their property rates.

Email enquiry@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz with your details and reasons for applying.

To learn more about the conditions, visit Apply for a reduction of property rates for miscellaneous purposes and Rates Remission and Postponement Policy.

Request a refund of a property rates payment

You may be eligible for a rates refund if:

• you have overpaid your rates account
• there has been a change in property ownership
• your rates have been adjusted, resulting in a credit balance
• your rates rebate has cleared your rates balance to 30 June and put you in credit.

To learn more, visit Request a refund of a property rates payment.