A vote by a Manukau City Council committee means South Auckland is a step closer to having a private police force patrolling the streets.
The proposal is for three teams of five guards as a part of a 24-hour patrol service would cost $3 million a year.
Manukau City Council's Policy and Activities Committee vote on the plan means it will go for public consultation with ratepayers.
Councillor Daniel Newman says he is angry the council has had to even consider the idea.
Mr Newman says it is unfair for Manukau residents to pay tax to central government, and not receive the support of an adequately resourced police force.
Acting Mayor Gary Troup also says local government should not have to provide law enforcement.
Police say 119 new officers are being allocated to Counties Manukau as part of a wave of new recruits.
Hunters Corner Business Association chair John McCracken the local council should be lobbying central government and political parties on increasing police numbers.
"Its front line police with statutory powers, that's what we need, not the very best intentioned security guards who have no powers."
Mr McCracken says security guards could find themselves in danger if they are sent on patrol in south Auckland.
