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The New Zealand Government is considering a Ratepayers Assistance Scheme to enable homeowners to defer rates payments, requiring an initial investment of $6-7 million and a standby loan of approximately $150 million. Total lending could reach $5 billion in 15 years, aimed at providing cheaper borrowing than banks.

The scheme would help manage rising rates and electricity costs, particularly benefiting retirees. However, officials have indicated that the government's current legislative priorities may delay the implementation. The scheme may also facilitate property improvement loans for solar energy solutions, with proponents highlighting potential annual savings for households.