More than 1000 entries had been received in a competition to design a logo for the Auckland super city, a day before the closing deadline on Friday.
The competition has attracted criticism from the Rodney District Council, which claimed last month that there are more pressing matters to deal with.
The Auckland Transition Agency, which is running the competition, argues a logo is a legal requirement heading into the pre-election campaign.
The judging panel's chair, Bob Harvey, said judges were happy with entries so far, but not fond of those featuring the Sky Tower, the Harbour Bridge or Rangitoto.
He said the logo shouldn't signify a brand or a destination, but should inspire thought about Auckland.
The competition deadline is 5pm on Friday.
