Auckland ratepayers will foot one third of the estimated $100,000 bill to buy tickets for....

New Zealand's largest local authority has failed to win the backing of almost half of small businesses, who say are unhappy with the Auckland Council's support.

Nikki Kaye and Jacinda Ardern are rivals for Auckland Central. But with Green candidate Denise Roche in the equation, the battle won't be straightforward.

Plan aims to make use of transport corridors and protect countryside.

Prime Minister John Key has poured cold water on Auckland Mayor Len Brown's plans for a $2.4 billion inner-city rail loop.