UPDATED 6.52pm: Auckland Council is formally asking the Ports of Auckland to hold off the construction of its controversial wharf extension until a study into the wider impact of the development is completed.

The Council's Development Committee today unanimously voted to send a letter to the Ports of Auckland and begin commissioning a study.

Councillor Mike Lee says the public is saying enough is enough to plans for further reclamation of the harbour.

Chief planning officer Dr Roger Blakeley has told councillors their request to have the Bledisloe Wharf suspended will also be passed on.

"The council cannot direct the port, but I think you can take it that there will be some very hard conversations held with the port to try and ensure that they are encouraged to do what's being asked here."

Opponents to the extension are planning to file proceedings against the port in the High Court tomorrow.