Stories by Finn Blackwell
News
'I want more people into the city' - Auckland mayor calls for legislative changes
Wayne Brown has made his case for how the city could work. But he says it can only be successful with the help of law changes by the government.
'Not impressed': Councillor slams Brown's idea of leasing port
Auckland's mayor says his plan to lease council assets to pay for the rising costs of running the city is not asset stripping.
Fire melts McDonald's sign as Whangaparāoa man watches
A Whangaparāoa man watched the famous golden arches at a local McDonald's burst into flames late last night.
It's renters vs landlords in new proposed tenancy policies
Under the new coalition governmnet, landlords may soon be able to evict tenants without providing a reason.
Auckland carpark sale plan has councillors at odds
A chaotic day at council has provided little clarity of what the future has in store for the city's Downtown Carpark.
Congestion charges coming to Auckland in the next two years
Auckland Council's Transport and Infrastructure Committee has voted 18 to two in favour of setting up a team to oversee the implementation of the 'time of use' charges.
Why Port of Auckland may be better for the city where it is
Explainer - Auckland mayor Wayne Brown wants the port's land freed up for the public, but the port argues it can deliver $1 million a week back to Aucklanders if it stays put.
Auckland Council adopts plan to intensify housing
It's a plan for how the city is expected to grow over the next 30 years - and recommends building most new housing in existing suburbs instead of undeveloped land.
Cruise ship stopped from docking in Auckland by strong winds
The Majestic Princess, which has sailed from the American Samoa capital Pago Pago has been sheltering off Rangitoto Island since 6am on Monday.
New Waiheke Island ferry service promises cheaper fares
People who travel between Auckland and Waiheke Island are celebrating promised savings, with a new ferry operator making waves in the Hauraki Gulf. Audio
Wayne Brown gives himself 'a 7, at least' out of 10 for his first year in charge
Auckland mayor Wayne Brown reflects on a year marked by floods, budgetary strife and infrastructure woes.
Mayor Wayne Brown proposes to slash number of Auckland local boards
Auckland's local boards could be set for their first major overhaul in 13 years after a proposal from the city's mayor.
Businesses nearby sinkhole putting up with 'foul odours'
Auckland businesses in Parnell say they're counting on Watercare's promise to have an emergency sewer repair in place by next week.
Auckland's young people grappling with reality they may never own a home, council hears
Representatives from diverse communities across Auckland have spoken with the city's council this morning, presenting the governing body with their strategic priorities for the future.
Dog attacks up by 250 in past year, number of dogs put down doubles
Animal control is grappling with a surge in dog attacks in Auckland.
Possible rates hike for Auckland will make city even more unaffordable, residents say
"Outrageous" was a term used by one Aucklander to describe a possible double-digit rates hike next year as the council again looks to cover costs. Audio
Auckland ferry commuters 'disgusted' as more cancellations announced
The Gulf Harbour ferry will now only operate twice in the morning, and twice in the evening - a decision Auckland Council says was necessary due to a shortage of staff.
'Very challenging': Auckland sinkhole repairs could take days
Crews have to clear away a large amount of earth blocking a sewer before they can start repairs.
Te Atatū homicide: Man pleads not guilty to murdering Nazia Hai
The accused, who can now be named as Jaykob Tutai, appeared in the High Court.
More technical woes hit Auckland Transport, commuters
On Tuesday, some commuters received an 'insufficient funds' notification when they tried to tag onto public transport.
Whakaari/White Island trial ends with WML's closing arguments
The company managing the volcano said it had no presence on the volcanic island, so was not liable for operations that put the public at risk.
Auckland rail: KiwiRail, Auckland Transport release plans
KiwiRail says its plans for rail network development are not dependent on whether Auckland light rail goes ahead.
Whakaari / White Island trial: WorkSafe, Whakaari Management begin closing arguments
WorkSafe has told a court that the company managing Whakaari / White Island should have questioned if it was safe for tourists to visit the volcanic island.
Suspect pleads not guilty over Mt Albert walkway murder
The man charged with the Mt Albert walkway murder of a man last year has pleaded not guilty in the High Court at Auckland.