Lane closures on Auckland's battered harbour bridge could deal a sharp blow to businesses

Travel into and around the city could be impacted for weeks while repairs are made to the bridge's superstructure.

The city's mayor is urging commuters to use public transport to get into the city centre and keep up foot-traffic.

Phil Goff says this is the last thing businesses needed.

He says they've been hit by closed borders, no cruise ships, no international students and fewer workers in offices.