A study to see if Auckland's capable of hosting the 2018 Commonwealth Games is to be undertaken.
The $325,000 study commissioned by the New Zealand Olympic Committee will identify gaps, strengths and weaknesses in the region's ability to host a Games and will be funded by central and local government.
The secretary general of the NZOC, Barry Maister, says a decision on whether New Zealand will make a bid will be made in January.
Next year's Commonwealth Games are to be held in New Dehli and the 2014 Games in Glasgow.