It would be impossible to gain design approval and build the Empire State building in under five years in Auckland today, despite modern technology, writes Bob Jones.

The Wynyard Quarter's stout but stately 1920s John Lysaght building is getting a $6 million makeover.

Rezoning Auckland's Viaduct apartment land as commercial would make the area more like other parts of the city and result in a more vibrant mix of activities, says Auckland Council.

Wealthy Auckland downtown waterfront landowner Ngati Whatua has already begun the 2018 rent review negotiations with tenants on 20ha of leasehold land.

A publicly-owned entity must pay Mobil almost $1m in courts costs for its failed attempt to get the oil company to pay for the clean-up of Auckland's tank farm.

Expansion by the two dominant supermarket chains has moved into a new phase, with more than $300 million of work under way.

A new $120 million 150-unit apartment block is planned for Auckland CBD's western fringe.