Minister for Auckland issues Judith Tizard is defending her job despite repeated criticism that she needs to lift her game and do more for Auckland.
So far this year her office has failed to report back to Cabinet on an Auckland issue. In fact she has no staff working on that portfolio leaving Auckland issues to other ministers.
"I don't have an office, to prepare Cabinet papers, I take messages from Auckland to other ministers and their offices prepare Cabinet papers, that's how it works," says Tizard.
But many business leaders are questioning her role as are opposition politicians.
Act leader Rodney Hide says Tizard's role as Auckland Issues Minister is a farce.
"Judith Tizard isn't up to being a minister and it's just really a prize to her from the prime minister, her friend," says Hide.
Tizard says she was appointed to the position seven years ago to be the eyes and ears for Helen Clark on Auckland Issues, not to do paperwork.
During that time Tizard claims she's achieved plenty and as associate transport minister she reminds her critics of the recent funding boost for Auckland's rail and roads.
