1The latest Economic Quarterly Report states that the region's economy is showing signs of a sustained and broad-based recovery. However, unemployment in Auckland remains higher than the national average, especially in the 15-24 year old age group. Auckland's house prices are the most unaffordable in New Zealand; average rents are $118 a week higher than the national average and earnings are only $103 a week more than the rest of New Zealand. How healthy is Auckland's economy really? Interview with Auckland Council's Chief Economist Geoff Cooper.

2If Auckland's economy is picking up, why is the Council planning to ban beggars from its streets? The Council is struggling with the number of people begging in public places and has proposed a new bylaw barring people from begging if they are making a nuisance of themselves. However retailers want stiffer rules - a total ban on begging in public places. However, a public backlash to a begging ban seems to have brought the conversation to a halt. Where is the proposal at now?