A group planning a concert venue at Auckland's Western Springs want council approval to get on with it.
A different bid recommended by council staff - for an arena backed by Auckland FC rich-listers - has been withdrawn.
The council says more assessment's needed to find a path forward.
Eccles Entertainment Founder Brent Eccles says he's thrilled the competition's pulled out.
He says his group remains the obvious choice.
"I believe that we're kind of in the box seat now, there were only two expressions of interest that were accepted - from us to build a proper concert bowl."
LISTEN ABOVE

Gavin Grey: UK correspondent on Labour's poor showing at the local elections
03:41

Geoff Bertram: energy economist on the Greens calling for the Government to bring down power prices
05:43

Shane Solly: Harbour Asset Management expert on the market reactions to the 'no deal' announcement on the Middle East conflict
03:07