Apply for a Rates Remission - Second SUIP

You may be eligible for a rates remission for the second SUIP (Separately Used or Inhabited Part) if:

  • you own a property with two or more units (called SUIPs); and
  • the second unit is only used by family or friends of the occupants of the first unit, on a non-paying basis.

You'll need to apply each year before 30 June to qualify for the next rating year.

Applications open for the 2026/2027 rating year

Applications for the 2026/2027 rating year are now open and will need to be completed before 30 June 2026.

What's a SUIP?

A SUIP is a separately used or inhabited part of your property. It could be:

  • a second flat or unit on your section
  • a sleepout with its own kitchen and bathroom
  • a self-contained part of the home, like a granny flat.

If you have more than one SUIP on your property, you may be charged extra rates.

Important things to know

  • you must apply before 30 June each year
  • applications must be on the required application form
  • successful applications will apply from the beginning of the next rating year only
  • only one SUIP can be considered for remission per property, even if you have more than two
  • if approved, the remission will be up to 50% of all targeted rates for the second SUIP only
  • your application must include a statutory declaration confirming that all the conditions of the remission will be met for the upcoming year. This declaration is legally binding. If Council later finds that any information was incorrect or misleading, your application may be declined or the remission reversed.
  • the amount of remission available may depend on how many people apply, as Council sets a yearly limit on the total amount that can be given out
  • by signing the application form, you agree that the information you provide will be used to assess your application. Some details may be shared or discussed at public Council meetings, as allowed under the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 and the Privacy Act 2020. If you have any concerns about this, or if you wish to withdraw your application, you can contact the Council at any time.

By email

Step 1.Check if you qualify

You must meet all of these conditions:

  • your property has two or more SUIPs
  • the second unit isn't rented and is used by family or friends of the occupants of the first SUIP, and they don't pay to stay there
  • you can sign a statutory declaration confirming these details.

Step 2.Have your property details ready

You'll need the following information about your property

  • assessment number
  • valuation number
  • location
  • owner(s)
  • how many dwellings, flats or units are on the rating unit.

Step 3.Download and complete the form

Horowhenua District Council Application for Rates Remission - Part 16 Second SUIP(PDF, 1MB)

Step 4.Email your form to us

Scan and email your application to rates@horowhenua.govt.nz.

In person

Step 1.Check if you qualify

You must meet all of these conditions:

  • your property has two or more SUIPs
  • the second unit isn't rented and is used by family or friends of the occupants of the first SUIP, and they don't pay to stay there.
  • you can sign a statutory declaration confirming these details.

Step 2.Have your property details ready

You'll need the following information about your property

  • assessment number
  • valuation number
  • location
  • owner(s)
  • how many dwellings, flats or units are on the rating unit.

Step 3.Complete the application form

You can download the form or pick one up from one of our Council service centres.

Horowhenua District Council Application for Rates Remission - Part 16 Second SUIP(PDF, 1MB)

Step 4.Visit your nearest Council Office

Pop into your nearest Council office with your completed form:

  • Levin (Main Office), 126 Oxford Street Levin, open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday (except Wednesdays) and 9.30am to 5pm Wednesday. Closed on weekends and public holidays.
  • Foxton Service Centre, 92 Main Street, Foxton, open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 4pm Saturday to Sunday (hours may differ on public holidays).
  • Shannon Service Centre, Plimmer Terrace, Shannon, open 10am to 12 noon and 1pm to 5pm Monday to Friday, Saturday only 10am to 12 noon.

Make sure to submit your form before 30 June.

Processing your application

Once we receive your application, we’ll assess it based on the general guidelines.

We understand that every situation is different, so your individual circumstances may also be taken into account when we make a decision.

The amount of the remission (discount) you receive will depend on:

  • whether your application meets the criteria
  • the total budget Council has set aside for this remission in the current year.

You’ll receive the decision in writing, either by email or post.

Contact Us

Phone

06 366 0999

Email

rates@horowhenua.govt.nz

Related Information

Back to top