Auckland Council will vote on whether it will allow offshore oil exploration off Auckland's west coast - an issue that's divided councillors.
The vote is part of the government's consultation process over the 2016 block offer, which will grant deep sea drilling permits to companies wanting to establish the size of oil and gas deposits in four areas.
Auckland council officials are recommending councillors approve the offer - as they did last year - subject to conditions to minimise the impact on the environment.
However, many local boards strongly oppose the offer because of environmental concerns.
Auckland Mayor Len Brown will hold the casting vote at a meeting on Thursday.
