The Auckland Council has launched a year-long study into the future needs of its port, costing one million dollars.
Photo: RNZ / Todd Niall
Councillors have voted unanimously in favour of the study, called for after the stand-off with the council's port company over the controversial extensions to Bledisloe Wharf.
The study process will be run by an independent group chosen by a wide range of community and sector representatives, without political involvement.
It was sparked by public protest, which result in Ports of Auckland agreeing to drop one of two extensions reaching more than ninety metres into the harbour.
About 1500 people took part in the march against the port extension in Auckland. Photo: RNZ / Anusha Bradley
The mayor Len Brown says his office will underwrite the study from its existing budget, and may seek contributions from other, unnamed parties.