Wellington, Oct 13 NZPA - A northern business lobby has backed the industry-led approach to ports rationalisation recommended in a government-commissioned maritime freight report -- but warns ratepayer-owned ports may have problems with such decisions.

Wellington, Sept 27 NZPA - The new Auckland Council has effectively raised $350 million before it comes into existence on November 1.

Wellington, July 21 NZPA - Rodney District Council's last ditch bid to avoid being swallowed up by Auckland has failed.

Wellington, June 24 NZPA - If Auckland Mayor John Banks manages to win the super city mayoralty in October he can expect a pay rise of almost $80,000.

Wellington, June 24 NZPA - If Auckland Mayor John Banks manages to win the super city mayoralty in October he can expect a pay rise of almost $80,000.

Auckland, May 24 NZPA - The final legislation covering the reform of Auckland's local governance has received a mixed reaction from the city's mayors and business organisations.

By Kate Chapman of NZPA Wellington, May 24 NZPA - The final legislation covering the reform of Auckland's local governance has been released. Local Government Minister Rodney Hide said it showed the Government had listened to ratepayers, but the Opposition says otherwise.

By Sharon Lundy of NZPA Wellington, May 17 NZPA - Local authorities appear to support a Government package announced today to fix some of the nation's leaky homes.

By Sharon Lundy of NZPA Wellington, May 17 NZPA - Local authorities appear to support a Government package announced today to fix some of the nation's leaky homes.

By Maggie Tait of NZPA Wellington, March 25 NZPA - North Rodney residents could use protest action to block traffic getting to Auckland City if the Government ignores their plea not to be merged into the new city council.