North Shore City's mayor says he will not apologise for calling a councillor a "smart-arse" during a meeting.
Councillor Chris Darby says the comment was made during a confidential council session after mayor Andrew Williams arrived late during a presentation and was asking unnecessary questions.
However, Mr Williams says he made the comment after Mr Darby suggested he was telling an untruth.
Mr Williams says Mr Darby is trying to undermine his leadership. He says the councillor has a political agenda, is a troublesome stirrer, and the term "smart-arse" fits him well.
Mr Darby says the mayor's behaviour was "completely inappropriate", and it is not the first time he has made rude or bullying comments during council meetings.
