Auckland Council is preparing to forcibly sell an Otara home - that has the city's longest outstanding debt

Tardy Auckland property owners racked up 53 million dollars in overdue rates in the year to June 30.

The Guthrey Place property has a CV of 560 thousand dollars - and currently owes 161 thousand dollars in unpaid rates and penalties.

It has grown to be Auckland's fifth largest overdue rating debt, with arrears dating to 2003.

Council staff haven't been able to contact the owner - and are investigating whether the property is abandoned or a deceased estate.