A compiled list of frequently asked questions we receive on rates

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@selwyn.govt.nz

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

What payments are available to me?

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

Why have my rates increased?

Below can be couple of reasons:

Valuation is now on land & dwelling when previously it was only on land

New bins ordered/bigger bins ordered

Restricted water charges charged now due to dwelling.

Charges have increased due to the adopted Long-Term Plan

If I make a lump sum payment for rates, do I get a discount?

There are no discounts. You can pay the full year’s rates (annual payment) by the 2nd Instalment due date 15 December – then penalties will not apply for Instalment 1. If you plan to be an annual payer, please email us at rates@selwyn.govt.nz

Can I setup a direct debit using a credit card?

No, direct debits can only be set up using a bank account number. However, you can make an online payment through our website using a credit card.

I have a direct debit in place and want to change just the suffix of my bank account number?

Complete the online direct debit application with all updated information – even if it is only a suffix.( Selwyn District Council - Rates Direct Debit Form)

I have a direct debit and want to change my bank account number, how do I do this?

Complete the online direct debit application with all updated information.(Selwyn District Council - Rates Direct Debit Form)

What will happen if my direct debit dishonours or I order or change the rubbish bins I have on my property during a rating year?

Selwyn District Council will periodically recalculate the direct debit deduction amount for the following reasons:

  • Ordered new bins or changed the size of the bins on your property
  • Dishonoured direct debits (you will be asked to make up the missed direct debit deduction, failure to do so will result in a periodic recalculation to clear your rates by the end of the rating year)
  • A payment has been made after the direct debit deduction was first established

I did not receive my invoice and now I have a penalty. This isn’t fair, what can I do?

Late arrival of a rates invoice due to an incorrect 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.

Can I get my penalty removed?

If you have not received a penalty remission in the last two years, one can be remitted. But if you have already had a penalty remitted within the 2-year period – a penalty will not be remitted.

I have sold my property and I am still receiving rates invoices. Why?

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

My house has been demolished, and I have not been living there. Can I get a remission?

Selwyn District Council - Application for Rates Remission – Please complete this link to apply and add the before and after photos.

I am being charged for the things that I shouldn’t be charged for. How do I get this corrected?

Please put your concerns in writing to the Rating Administrator, PO Box 90, Rolleston, 7643 or email: rates@selwyn.govt.nz

I have just sold my property. Who is responsible for working out the rates owed at the date of sale?

Your solicitor should work out the rates owing and negotiate for payment with the purchaser's solicitor.

How do I cancel my direct debit for rates?

Please send your request to the Finance Administrator, PO Box 90, Rolleston, 7643 or email: revenue.enquiries@selwyn.govt.nz

Who says how much my property is worth? If I don’t agree, how do I get it revaluated?

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

Why do I have to pay rates?

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.

What months does each Instalment cover?

Instalment 1: 1 July - 30 September

Instalment 2: 1 October – 31 December

Instalment 3: 1 January - 31 March

Instalment 4: 1 April - 30 June

What are the due dates?

Instalment 1: 15th September

Instalment 2: 15th December

Instalment 3: 15th March

Instalment 4: 15th June

I am being charged a quantity of two (2) on all service charges, what is the reason for this?

This means there are two rateable units on the property. Eg - Dwelling & a family flat

Can my rates invoice be emailed to me?

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: contactus@selwyn.govt.nz

Can I remove someone’s name from the title as they no longer own the property?

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

Can you please change my address?

Yes, please complete the form on the link Selwyn District Council - Change Your Details

I own multiple properties in Selwyn and one of the properties is vacant land only. Can you remove any rating charges?

We can remove one Library charge from the vacant land only. Email rates@selwyn.govt.nz with the valuation number and the address of the dwelling and the vacant land.

If I hold a power of attorney whom should I send this to?

Please email us the power of attorney with the property address and email it to contactus@selwyn.govt.nz

I do not have a Water Race so why do I have a Water Race charge?

Please email: contactus@selwyn.govt.nz they will get in touch with the respective team who will advise the rates team about any changes.

Any questions on ECAN rating charges?

Please contact ECAN directly on 0800 324636

How do I nominate someone else to talk to us on your behalf?How do I nominate someone else to talk to us on your behalf?

This request should be in writing by the ratepayer & email us contactus@selwyn.govt.nz