The mayor of Counties-Manukau admits his district could be on its way to becoming as lawless as Los Angeles.

Disgraced police officer Anthony Solomona is speaking out about the fragile hold police have over youths in the district.

Mr Solomona was forced to resign from the force after being found guilty of assault, and apologised to his victim.

He now says he wishes he had not said sorry, because he fears the area will fall apart unless police come down hard on gangs and drugs.

Counties-Manukau Mayor Sir Barry Curtis admits there are areas where gangs, prostitution and graffiti are rife.

He says the graffiti in particular gives the city a poor image.

But Sir Barry says there are many hard working people who do keep the situation in check.