Phil Goff has beaten John Tamihere to secure a second term as Auckland mayor.

Brian from New Lynn

Goff received 155,957 votes, or just under 48 per cent of the vote, compared with the 70,000 votes for Mr Tamihere. "I think we would have got strong support from across Auckland and the strong diversity of the city," Mr Goff said."What we are doing to tackle climate change will be a big issue, it's a big issue for my generation and my children's generation." He also said he would prioritise a review of the Auckland Council structure, starting with the CCOs. "That will be one of my first tasks, getting a high powered group together to work with government." "I want this city of ours to be world class, inclusive and have an environment we protect, nurture and sustain." "I believe we can make this city a fantastic place to live in, work in and enjoy." Mr Goff was told the result over the phone at his election event in Kingsland this afternoon. Goff said he regrets the rivalry between himself and Tamihere "verged on personal at times." "I prefer to debate the issues, not the individual," he told the crowd at Auckland bar, The Kingslander. Craig Lord was in third place, with 25,000 votes. Only a third of New Zealanders voted in the election. "I think that's a real challenge, not only for us but right across New Zealand that only a third of the people actually went out and exercised democratic privilege," Mr Goff said.
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