Ports of Auckland and Auckland Council are in urgent talks with lawyers this weekend after a shock ruling from the High Court.

The court has overturned the port's consents for two controversial extensions to Bledisloe Wharf, ruling it should have notified the public about its consents.

Work has been halted on the first extension, which was already well underway.

Michael Goldwater from Stop Stealing Our Harbours says the court's decision could be appealed, but he hopes it won't as it will come at the ratepayers' expense.

"It's not necessary. There's a study underway and there should not be any further legal cases on this matter."

"We know that council has spent around $500,000 on their legal bills, and Ports probably spent about the same amount."

The court also ruled the consents should have been bundled together and considered as one.

Auckland Council, which owns the wharf and granted the consent, is seeking legal advice.