The Government says this year's budget especially strengthens Auckland's role as New Zealand's economic engine room.

They point out that they're investing in health, including funding to purchase land for a future South Auckland Hospital, and a share of the Government's $5.5-billion health package.

Additionally, they highlight plans for housing growth with a new $400-million fund for councils to enable more homes.

Lastly, they're putting aside a billion for rail improvements, and another billion for school upgrades. 

But Mayor Wayne Brown says the devil is in the detail - and we'll need more clarity into a timeline of these initiatives, along with an explanation of how the Government's funding their share of the CRL.

So what do these investments actually mean for Aucklanders - and how confident can we be in keeping a globally competitive city? 

Minister for Auckland Simon Watts talks to Tim Beveridge to discuss...

LISTEN ABOVE