I've just set up payment for the first instalment of my city council rates for the new rating year.

It was a bit of a shock to realise that I'm paying over $1000 every quarter for an average three bedroom house on an average size section, nothing flash. This made me go back and look at my annual rates bill since we have owned this house (2011).

 Up until 2018 the increases were generally about 2 to 4% with one year showing a 1% decrease. Since 2018 (seven years) my rates bill has increased 108%. A  16% increase last year, and 13 % this year. By comparison the regional rates increased 7% last year and decreased 3% this year. 

I wish my income had increased by the same amount. I know inflation has been higher than usual but I think this sort of increase is above what might be expected.

I'm interested to know what rate increases other home owners have experienced. I'm in Hamilton and realise experiences will differ by rating authority.