Listen Now: 
The story of Auckland’s globally unique position as the world’s largest Maori city was a factor in it getting a special mention in this year’s Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize.
Auckland was nominated for the prestigious prize by Ngati Whatua o Orakei kaumatua Joe Hawke, Prime Minister John Key and others.
The citation received by the council says the judges decided to recognise Auckland for overcoming its planning challenges faced over the past 20 years, notably through a highly integrated and innovative governance model.
They also praised Mayor Len Brown for his leadership in spearheading the ambitious Auckland Plan, saying he and his colleagues have shown even the world’s most remote city can radically transform itself and unleash the creativity and cultural potential of its citizens.
The world prize went to Medellin in Colombia.
Sydney, Toronto and Vienna were also given Special Mentions.
Copyright © 2016, UMA Broadcasting Ltd: www.waateanews.com
RELATED NEWS
