There has been a testy exchange among the main contenders for the Auckland mayoralty over social equity and how to fund local government.
Len Brown used Radio New Zealand's mayoral debate on Monday to accuse rival John Banks of ignoring the needs of a poor community.
Mr Brown said on Morning Report the Auckland City mayor denied Otahuhu a long-sought swimming pool but re-sanded city beaches.
His call for new ways to fund local government was likened by Mr Banks to the ill-fated poll tax of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
Mr Banks accused Mr Brown and another rival, Andrew Williams, of making big-spending promises.
The former National Party minister was in turn portrayed as having toned down his transport promises to fall in line with Government calls for restraint.
However, all three agreed that if New Zealand's largest city is to live up to its new status, economic growth is crucial.
About 150 people gathered to listen to the debate at Auckland's AUT University, at which all three candidates promised to push through major roading and rail projects, such as a second harbour crossing, in the next 10 to 15 years.
Promises were also made to boost productivity and increase exports, in order to keep Auckland the economic powerhouse of the country.
Voting papers for the election will begin arriving in Auckland mailboxes from Friday.
