The New Zealand government is is considering an Auckland bid for the 2018 Commonwealth Games, according to local media reports.
The New Zealand Herald writes that the Auckland City Council approved a financial contribution in the tens of thousands at a secret meeting this week. The seven other local Auckland councils, as well as the Auckland Regional Council, were also considering "putting a few bob in the tin" according to Auckland Mayor John Banks, who told the paper: "the Commonwealth Games would be quite an event. We need the clear understanding of this city and whether it has the ability to host a global event.
"It will be hugely contested by other cities, probably better placed than Auckland to host it. Our ability to win such an event falls in the possible camp, rather than probable".
Waitakere City Mayor Bob Harvey said he was "wildly enthusiastic" about a Games bid and offered to chair any future organising committee.
