Phil Twyford

Wellington, Dec 9 NZPA - The Government has confirmed the new Auckland super city council won't have to hold a referendum about any potential sale of Ports of Auckland, but has put other protections in place.

Local Government Minister Rodney Hide said in Parliament today that assets remained under local authority control and a moratorium on sales was in place until the first-long term council community plan was completed in July 2012.

Mr Hide was questioned by Labour MP Phil Twyford, who said the move was further evidence of the Government's privatisation agenda.

"Aucklanders don't want the ports flogged off."

Mr Hide said "on numerous occasions, Mr Twyford claims that the Government's reforms are all about privatisation".

"All these claims have been proven to be false. I understand that the Public Service Association has been concerned about them and has spoken to the Labour Party because of the upset that is being caused among council staff by the false allegations that are being made by the member."