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Manukau mayor Len Brown - Source: Reuters -
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Auckland's move towards a super city has taken a surprising turn.
The head of the government committee looking at public submissions, John Carter, has assured Aucklanders he is on their side and they will be heard by parliament.
When the select committee headed south, there was no doubt who was in charge as Manukau Mayor Len Brown spelled out concern over being swallowed up by a new super city.
"There has been a shyness, a wariness, and an ill-preparedness to be a bride in this marriage," says Brown.
The mayor went on to demand protection for local projects like John Walker's Find Your Field of Dreams programme, the anti-graffiti unit, and free access to pools.
The Select Committee said it would do everything in its power to ensure free access to pools would remain.
Carter also sought to assure all Aucklanders they were being listened to.
"There is a lot of emotion and a lot of passion and the people need to understand we're taking that on board," Carter said.
After 10 days of hearings, the committee is now confident it will be able to deliver a workable way forward for Auckland under the direction of one all powerful mayor.
Brown says he will announce within the next month or two whether he decides to run.
He is coy for now, but those in the know say Auckland City Council's John Banks will face tough competition for the super city.
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