You have selected Council news from 17 August 2008.

Early planning is the key says expert
 "City planning is the most important function of city hall," says Canadian urban planning specialist Paul Bedford visiting New Zealand last week.

Officers sort parking chaos
Council parking officers are helping to bring safety and order to the chaos outside schools when parents drop off or pick up their children.

Pay your rates early and save
Auckland city ratepayers can get a 3.2 per cent discount on their 2008/2009 rates bill if they pay the full amount by 5pm on 20 August.

Kids learn how political system works
More young people are learning about the democratic process in the lead-up to the general elections through Kids Voting, a school-based interactive programme to educate children about elections and voting.

Controlled blasting for Lumsden Green
A three-week phase of controlled blasting to break through layers of hard basalt rock, which will allow stormwater pipes to be upgraded, began last week at Newmarket's Lumsden Green.

Young Football Ferns poised for cup
The first-ever FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup tournament is coming to Auckland – and our Young Football Ferns are confirmed to play Canada in the opening game.

Deposit Wynyard ideas in bank
What features would you like to see included in Wynyard Quarter – one of Auckland's major waterfront redevelopments?

Eco design tips
Auckland City Council eco-design adviser Eion Scott gives you more ways to create a comfortable healthy home that uses less electricity and water.

Piggity books into Library Week
Auckland City Libraries joins libraries across the country this week to celebrate Library Week 2008.

Photos portray our need to possess
Artstation's latest exhibition Odd Objects (12 to 30 August, 1 Ponsonby Road) examines our fascination for collecting and possessing things.

Do you feel the need for speed?
If you have ever wondered what it was like to fly some of the world's most loved historical airplanes, then strap on your goggles and scarf and head to Motat.

Run, walk and win an entry to the adidas Auckland Marathon
Hit the pavement and join over 10,000 other entrants in this year's adidas Auckland Marathon on Sunday, 2 November.