Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Auckland election heads for big voting finish

Updated at 8:20 am on 8 October 2010

Auckland's super city elections are heading for a big finish, with a surge of votes in South Auckland being seen as favouring Len Brown's bid to become mayor.

Both Mr Brown and John Banks are out campaigning on Friday.

Turnout so far has reached nearly 46%, with some political observers believing half or more will favour Mr Brown.

This week, voting has come largely from wealthier areas considered stronger for Mr Banks.

However, the deciding factor could be an early strong turnout in South Auckland communities backing Mr Brown - suburbs that previously had lower voting levels.

Listen to more on Morning Report

Mr Brown told Morning Report he's always been "a strong finisher".

He said that in local government, people vote for who is best for the job not along party lines.

He urged those who have not yet voted, to take their papers to a local library.

Listen to more on Morning Report

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