Smith and Caughey's closure indicates what needs to change in Auckland's CBD

The city's most iconic department store is closing its doors after 145-years - with the loss of almost 100 jobs.

The closure comes down to increased competition, economic hardship and the state of the central city.

Heart of the City Chief Executive, Viv Beck says - its a sign of fundamental flaws in the management of Auckland's CBD, especially in transport.

She says the system needs more functionality and common sense to meet Auckland's realistic transport needs