An investigation has been launched into the disappearance of dozens of the Dunedin City Council's vehicles, with proceeds unaccounted for, the ODT understands.

Plans for a $100 million waterfront hotel in Dunedin have been scrapped and the developers' partnership with the council has descended into acrimony.

Student numbers are expected to increase at the University of Otago next year, turning around three years of declining enrolments at the institution.

Dunedin mayor Dave Cull has secured a second term and will head a Dunedin City Council featuring six new faces and one returning veteran.

The beautiful game and some of its best young players are coming to Dunedin, with confirmation Forsyth Barr Stadium will host seven matches during the 2015 Fifa Under-20 World Cup.

Shedding staff cost the Dunedin City Council more than $600,000 in the last year, and more than half the money went to two senior managers.