A Facebook community group has criticised an Auckland newspaper for describing the suburb of Avondale as "third world".
The Western Leader, a local newspaper published by Fairfax New Zealand, published an article on Wednesday describing the west Auckland community as "derelict".
"Although Avondale residents say they are proud of their diverse community, some described their main street as neglected, unsafe and 'Third World'," the article says.
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But the community has hit back at the article on social media, with members of The I Love Avondale Facebook group labelling the article's description of the suburb as "pretty ruthless".
The article describes the "once-bustling Auckland town centre" as having "sunk into a derelict strip dominated by money lenders, 'for lease' signs and $2 shops".
Shoppers reportedly told The Western Leader that the suburb's centre was no longer a popular destination compared with nearby areas such as Onehunga and New Lynn.
"[The centre] doesn't even look like New Zealand, it's like a Third World Country," an owner of two businesses told the newspaper.
The Facebook group said there is room for improvement in Avondale, but added the area has been improving for the last three years, which is something "few people seem to acknowledge".
In contrast to the article's description of Avondale's main strip only being good for getting a loan or visiting a $2 shop, the Facebook group said there's other things to do - including getting a haircut or tattoo, seeing a dentist or seeing a film at the Hollywood Cinema.
Auckland Council recently approved $9.1 million to spruce up Avondale's centre over the next three years in an attempt to attract new businesses.
More than 100 state houses are also planned to be built in the area.
Newshub.
