Auckland is New Zealand's largest and fastest growing city, projected to reach a population of 2 million by 2040. It faces challenges of sprawl, inequality, and fragmented governance. A Royal Commission proposed consolidating Auckland's councils into a single unitary authority with a mayor to provide leadership and vision. However, changes made by the government weakened local democracy and increased central control over Auckland. It remains to be seen if the new governance structure will allow Auckland to effectively address issues and achieve sustainable development.