Aucklanders will not get a referendum on whether they want new taxes and charges to help pay for future transport projects.
The Auckland Council has voted to gauge public views on whether or how to raise billions of dollars in extra revenue during consultation on its Long Term Budget early next year.
Councillors Cathy Casey and George Wood failed in a bid to require a binding referendum be held.
Mayor Len Brown successfully argued that the idea should be canvassed during months of public consultation and a scientific public opinion survey be conducted.
Aucklanders would choose between higher rates and petrol taxes, or motorway charges, or may reject any new fundraising ideas.
Motorway charges and higher petrol taxes would require Government consent.