Creating an 800m public promenade along Auckland's Quay St has been suggested as an alternative to "party central" plans for Queens Wharf.

A long spell of dry weather is likely to lead to more fire bans being put in place.

Visitors to the Coromandel say a $40 fine for freedom campers will do little to deter those who choose to doss down in beach carparks.

Voters have expressed a lack of enthusiasm for the two declared candidates in this year's Auckland Supercity mayoral race.

Residents and holidaymakers are appalled by a DoC-approved icecream stall operating at Coromandel's Cathedral Cove.