A panel representing Pacific communities in Auckland wants a stronger role in the city's governance.
The panel, set up two years ago when Auckland councils amalgamated, has no guaranteed future after elections in 2013.
Pacific peoples make up 14% of Auckland's population and their designated voice has been an unpaid 13-member advisory panel.
Chair, Reverend Uesifili Unasa, wants its role to be enshrined in legislation, with more council resources to support it.
Mayor Len Brown says the Government is unenthusiastic about changing the law, but he hopes a review by the council next year will strengthen the panel's role.
But he says dedicated seats on the council would be a step too far.
