A battle over how much Aucklanders should pay for their water is looming as a central issue in the city's mayoralty race.
Candidate John Tamihere says if he wins he will sell a 49 percent stake in Auckland's water provider, Watercare, and use the $4 billion he expects to raise on overhauling infrastructure.
He says that will make Auckland's beaches safe for swimming.
Auckland's mayor is Phil Goff. He joins us with his response.