By Bob McNeil
Auckland’s super city mayor Len Brown has not been sworn in yet, but today was his first day on the job.
He spent it meeting senior staff and the chairs of council-controlled organisations.
Mr Brown says his focus is on uniting Auckland and reassuring people about his plans to build a central city rail loop.
“Auckland is absolutely ready for this,” he said.
“They’ve exercised their determination through voting for me as the mayor. I’ve made my policies in these areas absolutely clear and unequivocal.”
But Mr Brown’s plans have not been so enthusiastically greeted by Railways Minister Steven Joyce.
“I’m not writing any cheques today… it’s very early and we have to give the council and mayor a chance to share their commitment. Which we share too and its about how we advance that further, on top of what is a very large expenditure that’s already going on.”
Prime Minister John Key also appears to have some reservations.
“We share his ambition for wanting to make sure public transport is efficient in Auckland,” Mr Key said.
“I would make the point; all roads, or railway tracks, cannot lead to Government. Ratepayers will also have to pay their fair share.”
Mr Brown will leave the Manukau City Council at the end of October, to take up his new position as super city mayor.
“It’s always been bitter-sweet and it’s the same for many people around the region,” he says.
With the Government non-committal about helping out with the rail loop, he may have just swapped some small local fights for one big super fight.
3 News