Love is all around for feisty Greens confident of hitting 15% mark

There was talk of love and a celebrity-led singalong as the Green Party marked the close of its campaign with supporters in Auckland's St Kevin's Arcade.

But with the positivity came a more steely message - the Greens have done their time in opposition and are now ready to lead in government.

Supporters in the Alleluya Cafe mingled with the party's MPs and celebrities including Lucy Lawless as jazz played in the background yesterday afternoon.

Lawless, known for her environmental activism and lead role in Xena: Warrior Princess, later joined musicians including Jordan Luck and Anika Moa on stage. Luck led a singalong to his cult hit with The Exponents, Why Does Love Do This to Me.

Co-leaders Metiria Turei and Russel Norman both said Greens were confident of capturing at least 15 per cent of the party vote on Saturday.

Ms Turei said real change was "hours away". Her main priority in government would be ending child poverty, she said to loud cheering.

"One of the key themes of our election has been love. Love for our kids, love for our country, for our land and for our people.

"And after six long years National has clearly forgotten what love looks like. Love isn't exclusive, love doesn't pollute, love does not give up.

"We have led the opposition for the last three years and we are now ready to lead in government. This is within our grasp."

Dr Norman took swipes at National for having no vision in contrast to the Greens' plan for a "clean, green, smarter economy".

There was more applause for pledges on child poverty, river water quality, climate change and saving the Maui's dolphins. Party supporters spoke onstage, including 22-year-old Hinerangi Petersen, who said she had convinced members of her church to vote Green.